A 30-year-old patient becomes unresponsive after choking. Which of the following should the EMT perform next? Select the two answer options that are correct.
A.
Check for a pulse.
B.
Begin chest compressions.
C.
Open the airway and look in the mouth.
D.
Do not ventilate until the foreign body is removed.
E.
Position the patient in recovery and administer back blows.
Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (Based on NREMT standards):
When a previously choking adult becomes unresponsive, NREMT guidelines require the EMT to immediately begin the cardiac arrest sequence.
Option A (Check for a pulse) is correct because determining pulselessness directs the next intervention.
Option B (Begin chest compressions) is correct because chest compressions are initiated if the patient is pulseless and unresponsive. Compressions may also help dislodge the foreign body.
Option C is incorrect because the airway is checked only after compressions begin and ventilations are attempted.
Option D is incorrect because ventilations are attempted after compressions, with airway checks between cycles.
Option E is inappropriate for an unresponsive adult.
NREMT emphasizes following BLS algorithms precisely for airway obstruction leading to unresponsiveness.
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