During respiratory arrest, which action should be carried out first?

• A. Rescue breaths
• B. Chest compressions
• C. Check for responsiveness
• D. Call for emergency services

Answer: (A)

In respiratory arrest the priority is to restore oxygen delivery to the body. Breathing has stopped, so giving rescue breaths directly addresses the lack of air exchange and helps keep the brain and tissues supplied with oxygen while you arrange for further help. Use a method you’re trained in, such as mouth-to-mouth or a bag-valve-mask, and deliver breaths at a rate of about one every five to six seconds (roughly 10–12 breaths per minute), watching for the chest to rise with each breath. Keep rescue breaths going until the person starts breathing again or help arrives. If it becomes clear there is no pulse or the situation worsens to cardiac arrest, you would then begin chest compressions as part of CPR and continue rescue breaths as you compress. In a dental setting, shout for help and get emergency services on the line while you start rescue breaths to minimize delays in restoring oxygen.