In a situation where CPR is required, what must be established first before initiating compressions?

Before initiating CPR, it is crucial to establish airway control. The reasoning behind this is that ensuring an open airway is essential to allow for effective breathing, should rescue breaths be necessary later during CPR. In the absence of an open airway, any attempts to provide breaths would be futile, as air cannot reach the lungs of the individual in need.

While checking for breathing, confirming a pulse, or gathering data about a pediatric patient might also be important in certain contexts, the priority at the onset of CPR is to ensure that the airway is patent. This foundational step allows the provider to determine the next course of action, including whether to proceed with rescue breaths or focus strictly on compressions if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing adequately.