Breathing may be checked when the victim is on their back or on their side. In both cases, keep the appropriate level of head tilt while you look, listen and feel for signs of normal breathing.
- Look for movement of the chest and upper abdomen.
- Listen for sounds of normal breathing, with your ear close to the victim’s nose and mouth.
- Feel for any movement of air from the victim’s mouth or nose with your cheek.
Note:
- The decision on whether the victim is breathing normally is usually easy, but the wind and the noise of the sea can cause difficulties.
- Do not mistake the occasional gasp for normal breathing; this is not normal breathing and the victim requires commencement of CPR.
- Movement of the lower chest and upper abdomen does not necessarily mean the person has a clear airway.
Victim is breathing normally
If the victim is breathing normally and unconscious, place them in the recovery (lateral) position while keeping them safe and warm.
Victim is not breathing normally
Commence CPR if the victim is unconscious and not breathing normally.
Note:
- A victim who has been submerged may be given two rescue breaths before commencing CPR.
- Be aware that any overinflation may cause a victim to regurgitate.