How should you respond if you see someone suddenly collapse?

Responding to someone who has suddenly collapsed requires a systematic approach to ensure both your safety and the victim's chances of survival. The correct response involves assessing the scene for safety first, which ensures that no further harm will come to you or the victim, especially in situations like traffic accidents or potential chemical spills.

Next, checking the person's responsiveness is crucial. This can be done by gently shaking their shoulder and asking if they are okay. If they do not respond, this indicates a potential medical emergency, such as cardiac arrest or severe medical conditions that necessitate immediate action.

Calling for help is the next step, whether by getting someone else to call emergency services or calling them yourself. Early access to advanced medical care can significantly improve outcomes for the victim.

During this evaluation process, it's important to only proceed with CPR if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This careful assessment helps you determine the appropriate actions to take, ensuring that you provide effective assistance while minimizing risk to both you and the victim.