When should you call 911 before starting CPR?

Calling 911 before starting CPR is crucial in situations where an individual is unresponsive and not breathing. When you encounter an unresponsive adult who is not breathing normally, this indicates a medical emergency that requires immediate assistance from professionals. By calling 911 first, you ensure that emergency medical services are on their way while you begin life-saving measures.

This action not only provides potentially lifesaving support to the individual but also allows you to focus on performing CPR without delay. The protocols emphasize recognizing the severity of the situation, and unresponsiveness paired with abnormal breathing signals a critical condition that should prompt immediate action.

For responsive individuals, regardless of age, the priority is to maintain their safety and assess their condition further before contacting emergency services. This is different for infants and children; however, the immediate need to ensure that emergency services are alerted is heightened when dealing with unresponsive individuals.