Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

The first action a first responder must take upon observing an unresponsive patient is to check for signs of life. This step is crucial because it helps the responder determine whether the patient is breathing effectively or requires immediate intervention such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Signs of life typically include the presence of normal breathing, movement, or any indications of consciousness.

By prioritizing the assessment of signs of life, the responder can quickly identify the urgency of the situation and initiate appropriate medical care. If the patient shows no signs of life, the responder must act promptly to provide life-saving measures, starting with CPR.

Other options, such as assessing for life-threatening injuries or checking respiratory rate and heart rhythm, are important parts of the overall evaluation in a first aid or BLS scenario but should follow the initial assessment of the patient's responsiveness and breathing. Checking for signs of life directly influences the immediate care that needs to be provided, making it the essential first step in the management of an unresponsive patient.