Restore Breathing

Open the Airway and Restore Breathing

All living things must have oxygen to live. Through the breathing process, the lungs draw oxygen from the air and put it into the blood. The heart then pumps the blood through the body to be used by the living cells which require a constant supply of oxygen. Some cells are more dependent on a constant supply of oxygen than others.

Cells of the brain may die within 4 to 6 minutes without oxygen. Once these cells die, they are lost forever since they DO NOT regenerate. This could result in permanent brain damage, paralysis, or death.

Casualty Evaluation [see: Casualty Evaluation Table]

• Check for responsiveness — establish whether the casualty is conscious by gently shaking him and asking "Are you O.K.?"
• Call for help.
• Position the unconscious casualty so that he is lying on his back and on a firm surface.
• WARNING! If the casualty is lying on his chest (prone position); cautiously roll the casualty as a unit so that his body does not twist (which may further complicate a neck, back or spinal injury.
• Straighten the casualty's legs. Take the casualty's arm that is nearest to you and move it so that it is straight and above his head. Repeat procedure for the other arm.
• Kneel beside the casualty with your knees near his shoulders (leave space to roll his body).
• Place one hand behind his head and neck for support. With your other hand, grasp the casualty under his far arm.
• Roll the casualty toward you using a steady and even pull. His head and neck should stay in line with his back.
• Return the casualty's arms to his side. Straighten his legs. Reposition yourself so that you are now kneeling at the level of the casualty's shoulders.
• If a neck injury is suspected, and the jaw thrust will be used, kneel at the casualty's head, looking toward his feet.