When you encounter a casualty and you are not trained in medical care, what is the proper initial action?

• A. Administer advanced life support
• B. Check airway, breathing, and circulation; provide basic care within your scope; call EMS
• C. Diagnose underlying condition
• D. Transport immediately without assessment

Answer: (B)

The key idea is to act on the most life-threatening functions first: airway, breathing, and circulation. In a casualty you’re not trained to provide medical care, so the immediate priority is to quickly assess and support these basic needs. If the person is unresponsive or not breathing normally, you focus on maintaining a clear airway and adequate breathing while you call for emergency services, and you provide basic care only within what you’re trained to do. Getting professional help on the scene as fast as possible is essential because brain and heart can suffer without oxygen within minutes. You should avoid advanced medical interventions you’re not trained to perform, avoid diagnosing a condition, and avoid transporting the person without an assessment and proper support from EMS.