After quickly checking for signs of life, what are the next two steps in Basic Life Support?

After quickly checking for signs of life, what are the next two steps in Basic Life Support?

• A. Chest Compressions; 2. Intubation and Ventilation
• B. Defibrillation; 2. Chest Compressions
• C. Airway Management; 2. Medication Administration
• D. Breathing Assessment; 2. Chest Compressions

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that in Basic Life Support, restoring circulation comes first, followed by securing the airway to support ventilation. After confirming no signs of life, starting chest compressions immediately provides a perfusion pump to move blood to the brain and other vital organs. Once compressions are underway, the next priority is to secure the airway and provide ventilation so that the circulating blood can be effectively oxygenated. Intubation is an airway management step that enables controlled, reliable ventilation during ongoing resuscitation, especially in settings where advanced care is available. This sequence—circulation first, then airway/ventilation—reflects the need to maintain blood flow before focusing on gas exchange, though defibrillation remains critical if a shockable rhythm is present and is handled as soon as feasible.

The main idea being tested is that in Basic Life Support, restoring circulation comes first, followed by securing the airway to support ventilation. After confirming no signs of life, starting chest compressions immediately provides a perfusion pump to move blood to the brain and other vital organs. Once compressions are underway, the next priority is to secure the airway and provide ventilation so that the circulating blood can be effectively oxygenated. Intubation is an airway management step that enables controlled, reliable ventilation during ongoing resuscitation, especially in settings where advanced care is available. This sequence—circulation first, then airway/ventilation—reflects the need to maintain blood flow before focusing on gas exchange, though defibrillation remains critical if a shockable rhythm is present and is handled as soon as feasible.