What is the first action taken when a choking patient becomes unresponsive?

When a choking patient becomes unresponsive, the immediate priority is to call for help and start CPR. This is crucial because the patient could be suffocating due to a blocked airway, and any delay can lead to further harm. Initiating CPR enables you to provide the essential chest compressions and rescue breaths that can help restore oxygen flow, which is critical in an emergency situation.

During CPR on an unresponsive patient, if you suspect that their airway is obstructed, you can perform careful assessments, but the focus should remain on maintaining circulation and providing oxygen until emergency services arrive. Starting CPR also includes the potential to identify and correct the obstruction through various techniques while simultaneously addressing the patient’s need for immediate care.

The other actions, while relevant in the context of a responsive choking incident, may not be effective or appropriate for a patient who is unresponsive. They could delay lifesaving interventions, which is why calling for help and beginning CPR is the correct first response in this scenario.