If there is no normal breathing detected, what is your next action step?

When assessing a situation where no normal breathing is detected, the most appropriate next action step is to open the airway and perform a head tilt-chin lift for no more than 10 seconds. This step is critical because it ensures that the airway is open, allowing you to ascertain whether the person is able to breathe on their own. If no breathing is detected after this maneuver, it serves as a vital part of the assessment before proceeding to further emergency measures.

Additionally, performing this action allows for a clear evaluation of the breathing status without immediately committing to further interventions. In a situation where time is of the essence, taking this brief moment to confirm whether there are any signs of breathing can guide subsequent decisions effectively.

If the person remains unresponsive and breathless, the next logical step would generally involve beginning chest compressions. However, the initial focus must be on ensuring the airway is clear before escalating to that action or providing rescue breaths. This methodical approach aligns with established emergency protocols, emphasizing assessment before intervention.