When delivering ventilations during CPR, what is the first action if the chest does not rise after the first breath?

When delivering ventilations during CPR, the first action if the chest does not rise after the first breath is to reopen the airway. This is essential because an effective airway management is crucial for successful ventilations. If the chest does not rise, it may indicate that the airway is not adequately open or that there is an obstruction. By reopening the airway, you can ensure that air is able to enter the lungs effectively.

This step typically involves repositioning the head or using techniques such as the chin lift or jaw-thrust maneuver to free the airway from obstructions. It’s important to assess the airway again after this maneuver before attempting to provide additional breaths, as this increases the likelihood that the subsequent ventilation will be successful.

In cases where the airway remains obstructed, other measures may be necessary, but attempting to deliver a second breath without reassessing the airway could lead to ineffective ventilations, and moving directly to compressions may delay necessary airway interventions. Performing a blind finger sweep is not recommended unless you can see an obstruction, as it can push foreign objects deeper into the airway if performed improperly.