What is the first action in Basic Life Support for an unresponsive patient with no normal breathing in the dental clinic?

• A. Check responsiveness, call for help, activate the emergency system, begin chest compressions (30:2) and apply an AED as soon as available.
• B. Wait for patient to respond.
• C. Send someone to call EMS but delay chest compressions.
• D. Start rescue breaths only.

Answer: (A)

When a patient in the dental clinic is unresponsive and not breathing normally, the priority is to maintain circulation and get emergency help started as quickly as possible. Start by assessing responsiveness and calling for help immediately, then activate the emergency response system and get an AED while you begin chest compressions. Begin with high-quality chest compressions—about 100–120 compressions per minute, pressing hard and fast to a depth of roughly 5 cm (2 inches), allowing full recoil between compressions. Use a 30:2 cycle, delivering 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, and continue this pattern until the AED is ready or help arrives. Apply the AED as soon as available and follow its prompts; defibrillation is most effective as soon as possible for a shockable rhythm. Starting CPR right away keeps blood flowing to the brain and heart, and defibrillation promptly improves outcomes. Delaying chest compressions, waiting for a response, or starting rescue breaths only without chest compressions do not provide the necessary circulatory support in this situation.