Which action should be taken if you discover an object during a finger sweep?

The appropriate action when you discover an object during a finger sweep is to remove the object immediately before continuing CPR. In a situation where someone is in need of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), any obstruction in the airway can prevent effective ventilation and oxygenation. Performing a finger sweep is a method used to clear the airway if there is a visible obstruction.

When you identify an object within the airway, removing it promptly is crucial because it allows for the possibility of successful rescue breaths and circulation. If the obstructive object is not removed, the patient cannot receive the air they need, which is vital for restoring proper function and increasing the chances of survival.

Continuing compressions while an obstruction is present could lead to ineffective attempts to ventilate the patient, as air cannot flow in if something is blocking the airway. Therefore, the primary objective in this scenario is to ensure that the airway is clear, making the immediate removal of any visible object an essential step before proceeding with CPR.

While notifying emergency medical services (EMS) about the object can be important, it should not take precedence over the immediate need to clear the airway to facilitate breathing and circulation.