What should be done immediately upon encountering an unconscious victim?

Upon encountering an unconscious victim, the first and most crucial step is to call for emergency medical assistance and perform an assessment. This immediate action ensures that professional help is on the way, which is vital for the victim's chances of survival.

Calling for emergency services allows trained medical personnel to be alerted and en route, providing a vital link to advanced medical care. Concurrently, performing an assessment helps determine the victim's condition, such as whether they have a pulse or are breathing. This assessment lays the groundwork for subsequent emergency responses, including CPR or other immediate care measures if needed.

Prioritizing this dual action—securing emergency help and assessing the victim—provides a structured approach to handling a critical situation, aligning with established protocols for emergency response. This process not only maximizes the victim's chances of receiving timely assistance but also ensures that the responder remains aware of the victim's condition to provide relevant information to medical responders upon their arrival.