Unconscious but Breathing: First Aid Steps & Emergency Response

An unconscious person with normal breathing requires immediate action to maintain airway and summon help.

DRSABCD Action Plan

D – Danger

Check scene safety (traffic, fire, violence). Do not become a victim.

R – Response

Tap shoulders, shout "Are you okay?" No response = unconscious.

S – Send for Help

Call 911 (or local EMS) immediately. If alone, call before leaving (adult); for child/infant, 2 min CPR first if unwitnessed.

A – Airway

Head-tilt/chin-lift (or jaw thrust if trauma suspected). Open mouth; remove visible obstruction.

B – Breathing

Look, listen, feel ≤10 sec. Normal breathing = place in recovery position. Absent/agonal/gasping = start CPR.

C – CPR (If Not Breathing Normally)

• 30 compressions (5 cm depth, 100–120/min) → 2 breaths (watch chest rise)
• Untrained: Hands-only CPR (continuous compressions)
• Use AED as soon as available

D – Defibrillation

Apply AED pads; follow prompts. Resume CPR immediately after shock/no-shock advised.

Recovery Position (If Breathing Normally)

1. Near arm at right angle; far arm across chest
2. Bend far knee; roll toward you
3. Tilt head back to maintain airway
4. Monitor breathing continuously

Stay with person until EMS arrives. Provide details: onset, mechanism, medications, medical history.