What should you do first when responding to a person in need of CPR?

The first step when responding to a person in need of CPR is to check for responsiveness. This initial action is crucial because it assesses the situation and helps determine the appropriate course of action. By checking for responsiveness, you can ascertain if the person is conscious or unconscious.

If the person is unresponsive, it is a clear indication that immediate intervention is necessary, and you can then proceed to call emergency services and initiate CPR. If the individual is responsive, you would then assess their condition to provide the necessary help without starting CPR unnecessarily. This step ensures that you are acting based on the person's actual status, allowing for a more tailored and effective response to their needs.