Airway

Open the victim's airway by gently tilting back the victim's head and lifting the chin. If you suspect a head, neck or back injury, only lift the chin — do not tilt back the head. Next check the victim's breathing.

Check whether the victim is breathing. Chest movement alone does not mean the victim is breathing, so put your ear to the victim's mouth, and listen and feel for exhaled air. If the victim is not breathing, perform first aid for cardiac and respiratory arrest. If the victim is breathing, check his or her circulation.

Check for a pulse by gently pressing two fingers, not your thumb, in the depression on the side of the victim's neck next to the Adam's apple. Also see how to check an infant's circulation.

If the victim has no pulse, perform first aid for cardiac and respiratory arrest.

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