Here’s a clear, UK-focused walkthrough of adult Basic Life Support (BLS) based on guidance used by the NHS and the Resuscitation Council UK.
Adult BLS (UK NHS approach)
1.
Ensure safety
- Check for danger to yourself, the casualty, and others
- Only proceed if it’s safe
2.
Check responsiveness
- Gently shake shoulders and shout:
“Are you okay?”
If responsive:
- Leave in position found (if safe)
- Get help if needed
- Reassess regularly
If unresponsive:
→ Move to next step immediately
3.
Shout for help
- Call out for assistance nearby
4.
Open airway
- Head tilt + chin lift:
- One hand on forehead (tilt head back)
- Two fingers under chin (lift)
5.
Check breathing (max 10 seconds)
Look, listen, feel:
- Chest movement?
- Breathing sounds?
- Air on your cheek?
Important:
- Agonal gasps = NOT normal breathing
6.
Call emergency services
If not breathing normally:
- Call 999 or 112
- Ask for ambulance
- Put phone on speaker if alone
7.
Start CPR
Chest compressions:
- Centre of chest (lower half of sternum)
- Depth: 5–6 cm
- Rate: 100–120/min
- Allow full recoil
Ratio:
- 30 compressions : 2 breaths
8.
Rescue breaths
- Re-open airway (head tilt/chin lift)
- Pinch nose, seal mouth
- Blow steadily for ~1 second
- Chest should rise
If unable/unwilling:
- Do compression-only CPR
9.
Continue CPR
- 30:2 cycle
- Minimise interruptions
- Switch rescuers every ~2 minutes if possible
10.
Use an AED (defibrillator) ASAP
- Turn it on and follow instructions
- Attach pads as shown
- Ensure no one touches during shock
AEDs are commonly found in:
- Public buildings
- Train stations
- Shopping centres
11.
Recovery position (if breathing returns)
If casualty starts breathing normally:
- Place in recovery position
- Monitor airway and breathing
When to stop CPR
- Emergency services take over
- Casualty shows clear signs of life
- You become exhausted
Key NHS principles to remember
- Early CPR + early defibrillation = best survival chance
- Don’t delay compressions
- Compression quality matters more than perfection
If you want, I can:
- Run you through a real exam-style OSCE scenario
- Give a quick memory checklist
- Or tailor this for healthcare vs layperson expectations
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