What is the first step in adult BLS?

The first step in adult Basic Life Support (BLS) is to call for emergency help or activate the emergency response system. This action is crucial because it ensures that professional medical assistance is on the way while you attend to the victim.

Before beginning any resuscitation efforts, it is imperative to get support quickly, as time is vital in emergency situations. By calling for help, you ensure that additional resources and personnel will be available to take over or assist as needed. This proactive step helps to manage the situation effectively and can significantly improve the victim's chances of survival.

Once emergency help has been summoned, the rescuer can then proceed by checking for breathing and, if necessary, initiating chest compressions or rescue breaths, depending on the victim's condition. Prioritizing the activation of the emergency response system lays the foundation for a coordinated approach to handling cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergencies.