What should be checked first when performing CPR on an adult?

When performing CPR on an adult, checking the responsiveness first is critical because it helps to determine the immediate condition of the patient. This step involves assessing whether the individual is conscious and able to respond to verbal stimuli or physical touch. If the person does not respond, it signals that they may be in need of urgent medical assistance, and you should then proceed with activating emergency services and starting CPR if necessary.

Assessing responsiveness provides vital information about the patient's status and guides your subsequent actions. If a person is unresponsive and not breathing or not normal breathing, it indicates the need for CPR. This initial check is essential to initiate an effective emergency response and to ensure that no time is wasted in providing life-saving assistance.

The other checks, such as airway, breathing, and pulse, are indeed important components of the CPR process but follow the initial step of assessing responsiveness. Therefore, starting with responsiveness establishes the immediate need for intervention.