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Basic Life Support (BLS) Primary Survey
(Respiratory Arrest)

Using the BLS Primary Survey for a Patient in Respiratory Arrest

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The main focus of the BLS Primary Survey (see Figure 1) is on early CPR and early defibrillation, if needed. For a patient in respiratory arrest, however, the focus is on breathing and airway issues. The process is to assess the patient, and then perform an appropriate action. Each step in the survey has an assessment and actions to follow.


Figure 1. Basic Life Support Primary Survey


Assessment Action
Is the airway open? Open airway using head-tilt, chin-lift or jaw thrust
Is the patient breathing? Look for the rise and fall of the patient's chest.
  • Listen for breath sounds.
  • Use your cheek to feel the flow of air from the patient's breath.
If the patient is not breathing or the breathing is inadequate, give 2 breaths, each one lasting about 1 second and making the chest rise. Give 1 breath about every 5 to 6 seconds or 10 to 12 breaths per minute. Use a barrier device if you have one.
Does the patient have a pulse?  

The last step, defibrillation, is part of the primary survey, but is not required for respiratory arrest, as the patient has a pulse for this case.