How to Check for Breathing: Look, Listen, Feel—Emergency First Aid

Steps to Check Breathing

1. Look for chest movement: Stand/kneel to side; watch chest rise/fall.
2. Listen for breathing: Ear near mouth/nose; hear air movement.
3. Feel for breath: Back of hand near mouth/nose; feel air flow.

If not breathing or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.

Additional Tips

• If on back, gently turn to side to open airway.
• Remove visible airway obstruction carefully.
• If not breathing, start CPR (30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio) until help arrives or signs of life appear.