Private Patrol Operator Practice Test

What is the emergency first aid procedure for encountering an unconscious person?

1. Check for breathing, then call a doctor

2. Check for a pulse, then call 911

3. Shake the person to wake them

4. Perform CPR immediately

The correct answer is: Check for a pulse, then call 911

The correct procedure for encountering an unconscious person involves first checking for a pulse and then calling for professional help, which is why the chosen answer is appropriate. In an emergency, identifying whether the person has a pulse is crucial; it indicates whether the heart is still beating and the person may still be alive, albeit unconscious. If you discover that there is no pulse, this highlights the need for immediate emergency intervention such as CPR. Calling 911 after checking for a pulse ensures that trained medical personnel are on their way while providing you the opportunity to begin necessary first aid measures. This approach prioritizes confirming the person's condition and facilitating timely medical care. Other options don’t follow the proper emergency protocol. For instance, merely checking for breathing without assessing the pulse could lead to delays in critical steps. Shaking the person can potentially cause harm or worsen their condition, while performing CPR immediately should only be done if the person is confirmed to not have a pulse. Proper sequencing of these steps is essential for effective emergency response.