What is the first thing you should do when you encounter a person in need of CPR?

When encountering a person in need of CPR, the first critical step is to check for responsiveness. This involves assessing whether the individual is conscious and responsive to stimuli, such as verbal commands or gentle shaking. Checking for responsiveness is essential because it helps determine the appropriate next steps in emergency care.

If the person is unresponsive, it indicates a potential life-threatening situation, prompting the need for immediate action, such as activating emergency services and initiating CPR. On the other hand, if the individual is responsive, they may not require CPR and could be in distress due to a different medical issue. This assessment allows you to gather crucial information before proceeding, ensuring that the response is tailored to the individual’s condition.

Calling for emergency assistance, performing rescue breaths, or asking bystanders for help are important actions but should occur after establishing the person's responsiveness. Engaging with the situation correctly from the onset creates a foundation for effective emergency response.