When we approach an unresponsive casualty we check for danger in the first instance, followed by response – to see if they are conscious. Then we open their airway and check for normal breathing. This is really important as 50% of adults in cardiac arrest will demonstrate agonal breathing. When assessing breathing, how many breaths is normal in an adult in a minute – 12 – 20 breaths. This would mean you would see at least 2 in a 10 second period. For more information, get in touch
