Bystander Emergency Response: 16-Step Action Guide

1. Scene safety first – hazards (traffic, fire, wires, violence).
2. Call 911 – location, nature, victim count, conditions.
3. Stay calm – breathe, focus, delegate tasks.
4. Assess responsiveness – tap/shout “Are you OK?”
5. Open airway / check breathing – look, listen, feel ≤10 sec.
6. Start CPR if needed – trained: 30:2; untrained: hands-only (100–120/min).
7. Control major bleeding – direct pressure, tourniquet if limb.
8. Treat shock – supine, legs raised, warm.
9. Immobilize suspected spine injury – manual stabilization.
10. Do not move victim unless imminent danger.
11. Gather info – mechanism, medical ID, meds, allergies.
12. Direct EMS on arrival – clear path, concise handoff.
13. Document – photos (if safe), times, actions, witness contacts.
14. Support other bystanders – psychological first aid.
15. Protect privacy – no social media posting.
16. Debrief / follow up – employee assistance, critical incident stress management.