Algorithm of the approach to the unresponsive patient - SSS ABC

We always follow the algorithm SSS ABC while providing first aid to an unresponsive patient. Here is a step-by-step sequence:

S – safety	Make sure that you, the patient and any bystanders are safe.
S – stimulate	Assess the patient's level of consciousness. Speak loudly to the patient and, if he does not respond, shake his shoulders.
S – shout for help	Shout for help loudly.
A – airway	Turn the patient face up if necessary. Then tilt his head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
B – breathing	To determine whether the patient is breathing normally, look at his chest, listen and try to feel the exhaled airflow on your face. Check for the breathing for 10 seconds. If you have any doubt whether the breathing is normal, act as if the patient is not breathing normally and start CPR.
C – CPR	Call EMS and start CPR by chest compressions in an adult patient.

The following chapters will be dedicated to the detailed description of the individual steps.