Assessing Breathing in an Unresponsive Person: Step-by-Step Guide

Steps to Assess Breathing

1. Check responsiveness: Shout, tap shoulders. No response → proceed.
2. Position: Supine, head tilt-chin lift to open airway.
3. Look, Listen, Feel (10 seconds):
   • Look: Chest rise/fall.
   • Listen: Breath sounds at mouth/nose.
   • Feel: Air movement on cheek.
4. Evaluate: Normal = regular chest movement, 12–20 breaths/min. Absent or gasping → not normal.
5. Act: If no normal breathing, start CPR (chest compressions + rescue breaths) immediately.

Remember: Gasping is not normal breathing. When in doubt, start CPR.