What is the first step in giving mouth-to-mouth breaths during CPR?

The first step in giving mouth-to-mouth breaths during CPR is to open the airway. This is crucial because it ensures that the airway is clear and unobstructed, allowing for effective ventilation. When the airway is opened, it minimizes the risk of aspiration and allows the breaths to be delivered directly into the lungs.

This step is typically done by tilting the head back slightly and lifting the chin, which helps to reposition the tongue and prevent it from blocking the airway. Properly opening the airway is fundamental, as it sets the stage for successfully delivering breaths and providing adequate oxygenation to the victim.

In a practical CPR scenario, checking for breathing, sealing the mouth, or pinching the nose would follow after ensuring that the airway is clear. Opening the airway is a priority to facilitate the subsequent steps in providing rescue breaths.