Basic Life Support (BLS) Primary Survey

for Respiratory Arrest

The main focus of the BLS Primary Survey (see Figure 1) is on early CPR and early
defibrillation, if needed. For a patient in respiratory arrest, however, the focus is on
breathing and airway issues. The process is to assess the patient, and then perform an
appropriate action. Each step in the survey has an assessment and actions to follow.
Figure 1. Basic Life Support Decision Tree
Assessment

Action

Is the patient breathing?

Look for the rise and fall of the patient's chest.

Does the patient have a

pulse?

The healthcare provider can take 5-10 seconds to check

for a pulse.

AED

When the AED arrives, place it on the patient and follow

the prompts

Is the patient breathing NORMALLY? (small gasping breaths are not considered
normal.
If no Pulse BEGIN COMPRESSIONS at a rate of 100/min to 120/min
If not sure if a pulse is present, BEGIN COMPRESSIONS at a rate of 100/min to
120/min
If pulse is present and breathing absent, begin ventilation at a rate of 10 per minute or
once every 6 seconds using mouth to mouth or bag valve mask.
The last step, defibrillation, is part of the primary survey, but is not required for
respiratory arrest, as the patient has a pulse for this case. Therefore the AED will advise
the user "no shock advised, continue CPR if necessary."