Basic Life Support (BLS) provides a foundation of care for individuals experiencing sudden medical emergencies. Knowing how to respond can make a profound difference, bridging the gap until professional medical help arrives. Understanding the proper sequence and techniques of adult BLS can enhance the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Recognizing the Need for BLS
Before approaching an individual, ensure scene safety by assessing the environment for potential hazards. Once safe, cautiously approach the person.
Check for responsiveness by gently tapping the person’s shoulder and shouting, asking if they are okay. If there is no reaction, the person is unresponsive.
Immediately activate the emergency response system by calling 911 or the local emergency number. If others are present, direct someone to retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available. Prompt activation of emergency services and early access to an AED significantly improve the chances of survival.
Performing Adult BLS: The Six Key Steps
Step 1: Assess for Breathing and Pulse
Assess for normal breathing and a pulse simultaneously. This assessment should take no more than 10 seconds. Observe the person’s chest for normal breathing or gasping, and feel for a pulse, such as the carotid pulse in the neck. If no normal breathing or pulse is felt, basic life support interventions are necessary.
Step 2: Initiate Chest Compressions
Begin chest compressions immediately if no normal breathing or pulse is detected. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest, on the lower half of the breastbone. Place the other hand on top, interlocking the fingers. Keep arms straight, using body weight for effective compressions.
Deliver compressions hard and fast, at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute. The depth for an adult should be at least 2 inches (5 cm) but not exceed 2.4 inches (6 cm). Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression, enabling the heart to refill with blood.
Step 3: Deliver Rescue Breaths
Following 30 chest compressions, deliver two rescue breaths. To open the airway, perform the head tilt-chin lift maneuver by placing one palm on the person’s forehead and gently tilting the head back while lifting the chin forward with the other hand. This action helps clear the airway.
Pinch the person’s nostrils shut, make a seal over their mouth, and deliver the first rescue breath, lasting approximately 1 second. Observe for visible chest rise to confirm effectiveness. If the chest rises, deliver the second breath; if not, reposition the head and try again.
Step 4: Utilize an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) as Soon as Available
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) analyzes the heart’s rhythm and can deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heartbeat. As soon as an AED arrives, power it on and follow its voice prompts. Attach the adhesive pads to the person’s bare chest according to the diagrams.
The AED will analyze the heart’s rhythm and advise whether a shock is needed. If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear before pushing the shock button. After the shock is delivered, or if no shock is advised, immediately resume chest compressions without delay.
Step 5: Continue CPR Cycles
Continue cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. If an AED is present, integrate its use into these cycles as soon as it is ready. The goal is to provide continuous, high-quality CPR to maintain blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain and other organs.
Step 6: Minimize Interruptions
Maintaining continuous, high-quality chest compressions is paramount for effective basic life support. Interruptions to compressions should be minimized to no more than 10 seconds. This includes pauses for rescue breaths or AED analysis and shock delivery.
Continuing Care and When to Stop
Basic life support should continue without interruption until one of several specific conditions is met. This ongoing care is maintained until the person shows clear signs of recovery, such as moving, speaking, or breathing normally. Alternatively, BLS can be stopped when trained medical professionals, like Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, arrive and are prepared to assume care.
A rescuer may also discontinue BLS if they become too physically exhausted to continue providing effective compressions and breaths. Lastly, if the scene unexpectedly becomes unsafe, the rescuer should prioritize their own safety and disengage from providing care. Once EMS takes over, they will transport the individual for further medical evaluation and advanced treatment.
While this article provides a detailed overview, obtaining formal BLS training through certified courses is highly recommended. Such training offers hands-on practice and builds the confidence needed to act effectively in a real-life emergency.