The 5 steps of Basic Life Support (BLS) are a sequence of actions to take during a medical emergency. Here are the steps:
BLS Steps
The following table details the 5 steps of BLS, which are crucial for providing immediate care to someone in need:
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scene Safety | Ensure the environment is safe for both you and the person needing help. |
| 2 | Assess Breathing | Check if the person is breathing normally. |
| 3 | Activate EMS | Call emergency medical services or ask someone else to do it. |
| 4 | Get the AED | Obtain an Automated External Defibrillator as quickly as possible. |
| 5 | CPR (Chest Compressions) | Start chest compressions to maintain blood flow until further help arrives. |
Detailed Breakdown of BLS Steps
Here's a more in-depth look at each step:
- Scene Safety:
- Before approaching the person, quickly scan the area for hazards such as traffic, fire, or unstable objects.
- Remove any potential dangers if you can do so safely.
- This step is essential to prevent further injuries to yourself and the victim.
- Assess Breathing:
- Look to see if the person's chest is rising and falling.
- Listen for normal breathing sounds.
- If they are not breathing or not breathing normally (gasping), move to the next step.
- Activate EMS:
- Call emergency services (911 in many regions) or ask someone else to call.
- Provide the dispatcher with the exact location and a brief description of the situation.
- Stay on the line until told to hang up.
- Get the AED:
- If available, locate and retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator.
- AEDs can help restore a normal heart rhythm if the person is experiencing cardiac arrest.
- CPR (Chest Compressions):
- Start chest compressions if the person is not breathing or not breathing normally.
- Place your hands in the center of the chest, and push hard and fast (at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, and to a depth of at least 2 inches for an adult).
- Continue compressions until the AED is ready or EMS personnel arrive.
Following these steps will increase the person's chance of survival.
