Which action is appropriate to verify responsiveness at the scene?

Which action is appropriate to verify responsiveness at the scene?

• A. Turn on the AED
• B. Check for breathing
• C. Verify scene safety
• D. Tap the person's shoulder and shout 'Are you OK?'

Answer: (D)

The action that verifies responsiveness is verbally and physically engaging the person to see if they respond. Gently tap the person on the shoulder and loudly ask, “Are you OK?” This direct cue helps you quickly determine if they are conscious and able to respond, which is the first step in guiding the subsequent actions. If there is a response, you can proceed to further assessment (check for breathing and consciousness level). If there is no response, you would activate emergency services and begin the next steps of CPR and using an AED as indicated. Turning on the AED or checking breathing are actions that come after you’ve established whether the person is responsive, and ensuring the scene is safe should be assessed before approaching, but not for verifying responsiveness itself.

The action that verifies responsiveness is verbally and physically engaging the person to see if they respond. Gently tap the person on the shoulder and loudly ask, “Are you OK?” This direct cue helps you quickly determine if they are conscious and able to respond, which is the first step in guiding the subsequent actions.

If there is a response, you can proceed to further assessment (check for breathing and consciousness level). If there is no response, you would activate emergency services and begin the next steps of CPR and using an AED as indicated. Turning on the AED or checking breathing are actions that come after you’ve established whether the person is responsive, and ensuring the scene is safe should be assessed before approaching, but not for verifying responsiveness itself.