Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

What is the first step to take when providing care to a child in respiratory arrest?

1. Activate EMS and call for an AED

2. Check for breathing and pulse

3. Perform primary assessment

4. Start delivering ventilations immediately

The correct answer is: Activate EMS and call for an AED

The first step in providing care to a child in respiratory arrest is to ensure that emergency medical services (EMS) are activated and that an automated external defibrillator (AED) is called for if available. This action is crucial because timely activation of EMS facilitates rapid medical assistance, which is essential in emergency situations, particularly when a child is experiencing respiratory arrest. When dealing with respiratory emergencies, every second counts, and having trained professionals on the way can significantly improve the child’s chances of recovery. Alongside this, calling for an AED is vital because it can be used later in case the child's condition deteriorates to cardiac arrest. The combination of EMS activation and preparing for the use of an AED sets the stage for effective intervention. Subsequent steps, such as checking for breathing and pulse, performing a primary assessment, and delivering ventilations, are all important aspects of care but should follow the immediate activation of emergency services. This order of operations ensures that additional help is on the way while the caregiver assesses the child and initiates appropriate life-saving measures.