If a patient with airway obstruction becomes unconscious, what is the recommended action?

• A. Begin CPR
• B. Check glucose
• C. Place in recovery position
• D. Move to a safe area

Answer: (A)

When airway obstruction leads to unconsciousness, the priority is to restore circulation and ventilation. An unconscious patient cannot effectively breathe on their own, so performing CPR ensures oxygen-rich blood continues to reach the brain and vital organs. Start high-quality chest compressions immediately, and, if trained and equipped, provide rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. Do not delay CPR to try to clear the airway or move the patient or perform other checks first. The actions of placing in a recovery position or moving to a safe area don’t address the urgent need for circulation and ventilation, and checking glucose isn’t the immediate priority in this acute choking scenario.