What is the first action to take when performing BLS?

Assessing the situation and the victim is the first crucial action to take when performing Basic Life Support (BLS). This initial assessment ensures that you are aware of your environment, including any potential dangers, which helps to keep both the rescuer and the victim safe. It involves determining whether the scene is safe to approach and then checking the victim for responsiveness. If the situation is unsafe or if the victim is unresponsive, it allows the rescuer to take appropriate actions before providing care.

By thoroughly assessing the situation and the victim, you can identify if emergency services need to be activated and what actions are necessary to address the victim's condition. This foundational step is essential in the BLS process, as it lays the groundwork for further interventions, such as activating emergency services or checking for breathing, which occur after establishing safety and assessing responsiveness.