How to Tell if the Victim is Breathing

In a situation where an individual appears to be unconscious it's essential to determine if he or she is breathing. An individual may have passed out but they are still breathing. If a person has stopped breathing oxygen is no longer going to their brain and permanent brain damage and death may result. A quick assessment is needed so CPR can start. Read on to learn how to tell if the victim is breathing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look at the victim. Watch for the rise and fall of the chest. If the victim is on the ground get down to their level to assess the situation. Unbutton a heavy overcoat to view the chest.

2. Bend your head down and place your ear over the victim's mouth and nose. Listen for breath sounds. Some victims may be breathing shallowly and it may be difficult to hear. Placing your ear close will help.

3. Feel for chest movement. As a person breathes their chest will raise and fall. A victim may be breathing so shallow it may be difficult to see the chest rise. However you may be able to feel it. Place your hand on the victim's chest to determine if it is going up and down.

4. Position the victim's head. If you do not hear breathing from the victim the airway may be blocked. Gently place your hand on the victim's forehead and two fingers under the chin. Tilt the head back. Push down slowly and gently on the forehead while simultaneously lifting the chin. This will open the airway.

5. Listen again for sounds of breathing. If the airway was blocked and you have opened it the victim may now be able to breath. Listen for about 10 seconds.

Tips & Warnings

• Perform your assessment quickly. The steps should take less than a minute to complete.
• If you find a victim not breathing start rescuing breathing immediately.
• Ask other people around to get help and call for an ambulance as you start your assessment.
• Be aware if you hear a person making gurgling sounds or gasping for air they need help. That is not normal breath sounds.
• If the victim appears to have a neck injury or you suspect one do not tilt the head back. This may cause further injury to the neck.

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