You arrive at a patient found unresponsive. Which action is the FIRST priority in the BLS primary survey?

You arrive at a patient found unresponsive.

Multiple choice — select the best answer

ACheck for a carotid pulse for up to 10 seconds.
BVerify scene safety before approaching the patient.
COpen the airway using a head-tilt chin-lift.
DAttach the AED and analyze rhythm.

✓ Correct answer: B. Verify scene safety before approaching the patient. The very first step of any resuscitation is confirming that the scene is safe for rescuers, as outlined in the BLS survey; proceeding into an unsafe environment risks creating additional victims.

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Topic: Advanced Cardiac Life Support

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You arrive at a patient found unresponsive. Which action is the FIRST priority in the BLS primary survey?

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