HealthFirst

R Is For Response

5th October 2011

So you have checked for Danger (to yourself and any third parties) and it is safe to approach someone who has had an accident or become unwell – What’s next?

Check for a Response from the person. Firmly rub their collar bones on both sides (in an adult or child above the age of 1). For a baby under the age of one, rub or flick both their feet and hands.

At the same time, talk loudly to them ‘Hello, can you hear me? Open your eyes’

A person who is fully conscious will respond to these actions. Someone who is unconscious will either not respond at all or give an abnormal response eg a groan, a flutter of the eyelids or an attempt at moving their arms or legs. Someone whose heart and breathing has stopped will not respond.

Once you know the level of response from the person, you can call for help and start first aid measures if necessary, such as rolling them into the recovery position (someone that is unconscious) or starting CPR if they are not breathing.

More Articles

HealthFirst First Aid Toolkit Series

Blog, First Aid

HealthFirst First Aid Toolkit Series

Do you know what to do in a medical emergency? We share essential first aid tips that everyone should know. Our HealthFirst First Aid Toolkit series covers six key topics, each offering simple, practical steps to help you respond with confidence. Build your own First Aid Toolkit — with step-by-step tips, key essentials, and practical advice to keep you and your loved ones safe!

23rd June 2025

Meet the Team – Nurse Michael Edwards

Blog, Meet the team

Meet the Team – Nurse Michael Edwards

Meet the Team, our monthly introduction to the team members at HealthFirst. Introducing Nurse Michael Edwards, HealthFirst Trainer.

9th June 2025

Meet the Team – Nurse Sue Britain

Blog, Meet the team

Meet the Team – Nurse Sue Britain

Meet the Team, our monthly introduction to the team members at HealthFirst. Introducing Nurse Sue Britain, HealthFirst Trainer.

12th May 2025

Stay in Touch

Keep up to date with all our latest training and courses