Primary Survey
When confronted with an unconscious casualty it’s critical to conduct a primary survey once the scene is safe. You can do this by using DR ABC.
D
DANGERS – carefully check for dangers that could cause the casualty or you injury such as syringes, glass or debris.
R
RESPONSE – Call out to see if the casualty can hear you. You can also tap their shoulders or pinch their ear lobe to obtain a pain response.
Shout for help!
A
AIWAY – Use the tilt head and chin lift method to open the airway 1. Place one hand on their forehead and two fingers (side on) under their chin and tilt their head fully back.
B
BREATHING – Check. This should take no more than 10 seconds. See below for more info.
C
CADIO PULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) Where you suspect the casualty is not breathing normally you must commence CPR.
Checking for Breathing
Traditional:
With head tilted back, place your ear touching their mouth looking down their chest for movement.
Covid-19:
Use glasses or a mobile phone screen against their mouth to check for condensation. Or place you hand across the check or back as close to the skin as possible to feel their lungs moving.
Teenagers & Adults
Average breaths in 1 minute: 20
Normal chest rise in 10 seconds: 2 - 3
Child (1 - 12 yrs)
Average breaths in 1 minute: 30
Normal chest rise in 10 seconds: 5
Baby (birth - 1 yrs)
Average breaths in 1 minute: 40 - 60
Normal chest rise in 10 seconds: 6 - 10
1 If you suspect a spinal injury move straight onto breathing.
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