While choking, the victim becomes unresponsive. What is the recommended action?

• A. Check for airway first
• B. Leave the scene
• C. Begin CPR starting with chest compressions
• D. Give rescue breaths only

Answer: (C)

When a choking victim becomes unresponsive, treat it as a situation requiring CPR to restore circulation. The immediate danger is that the airway obstruction has halted effective breathing and, more critically, blood flow to the brain and heart. Starting chest compressions right away keeps oxygenated blood circulating, which is essential even as you assess or attempt to relieve the obstruction. Delaying for airway checks or trying rescue breaths alone won’t establish circulation, and doing nothing would allow brain injury to progress. So the best action is to begin CPR with chest compressions, and then provide rescue breaths as you’re able, continuing cycles until help arrives or the person regains a pulse and breathing.