If a choking victim becomes unresponsive, what should you do first?

• A. Start CPR and check the mouth for the object before giving breaths; Do not do a blind sweep.
• B. Perform a blind finger sweep to remove the object.
• C. Call for help and wait without performing CPR.
• D. Check the mouth for the object and then call.

Answer: (A)

When a choking victim becomes unresponsive, the priority is to start CPR right away to keep blood flowing and oxygen reaching the brain. Begin chest compressions and, as you open the airway to give rescue breaths, quickly look in the mouth for the object. If you can see it, remove it only if you can do so safely; avoid a blind finger sweep because blindly digging into the airway can push the object deeper or cause injury. After attempting to clear what you can see, continue the CPR cycle and provide breaths. If you haven’t already called for help, make that call while you start or continue CPR. This approach minimizes delays and reduces the risk of pushing the obstruction further while you deliver life-saving care.