What is the first step in managing a complete airway obstruction in an unconscious patient?

• A. Check for foreign body obstruction and remove.
• B. Begin CPR.
• C. Perform head tilt-chin lift and attempt rescue breaths.
• D. Call for help and suction.

Answer: (B)

When someone is unconscious with a complete airway obstruction, the priority is to restore circulation and oxygen delivery. Beginning CPR right away provides chest compressions to circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and heart while help is on the way, which is essential because rescue breaths alone won’t be effective if air can’t reach the lungs. After starting CPR, you can assess the airway and remove the obstruction if you can see it safely, but delaying compressions to try to clear the blockage first would reduce perfusion. Calling for help and suction are important steps, but they don’t take precedence over initiating CPR in this scenario.