What is the first step if an adult with an obstructed airway becomes unresponsive?

If an adult with an obstructed airway becomes unresponsive, the first step is to carefully lower the patient to a flat surface. This action is crucial because it ensures the safety of the individual and also allows for effective assessment and intervention techniques, such as CPR, to be performed.

Once the person is on the ground, the responder can then assess the situation more thoroughly, including checking for responsiveness and breathing, and initiate further steps such as beginning CPR or attempting to relieve the obstruction. This approach is in line with established protocols for managing unresponsive patients, where ensuring a safe and stable environment is paramount.

In this context, administering oxygen is not a priority because it does not address the immediate issue of airway obstruction. Similarly, performing the Heimlich maneuver is not appropriate for an unresponsive adult, as it may not be effective or safe without the individual being conscious and aware. Checking the patient’s pulse can be important, but it should follow ensuring that the patient is safely on the ground and assessing their overall condition.