Texas Class A Barber Written ExamSanitation, Disinfection, and SafetyHard
A barber notices a client suddenly slump in their chair, appearing unresponsive, with pale skin and shallow breathing. The barber immediately calls 911. What is the NEXT crucial step the barber should take while waiting for emergency services?
- ALoosen any tight clothing around the neck and chest.
- BAdminister CPR immediately, regardless of training.
- CTry to rouse the client by shaking them vigorously.
- DAttempt to give the client a sugary drink.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck and chest.
After calling 911 for an unresponsive client, loosening tight clothing around the neck and chest is a universally recommended first aid step. This helps ensure an open airway and facilitates breathing, without requiring specific medical training.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Administering CPR without proper training is not recommended and could be ineffective or harmful; checking for breathing and pulse is typically done by trained individuals.
- C. Shaking an unresponsive person vigorously is generally discouraged as it could worsen certain medical conditions, especially if there's a spinal injury.
- D. Giving a sugary drink to an unresponsive person could lead to choking and is only appropriate for conscious individuals with suspected low blood sugar.
Emergency First Aid: Unresponsive Client
After calling 911 for an unresponsive client, ensure an open airway by loosening tight clothing and position the client for optimal breathing, but avoid aggressive interventions without training.
- Call 911 first.
- Ensure open airway (loosen clothing).
- Do not give food/drink to unresponsive person.
- Do not move unnecessarily.
Memory trick: Call for help, then loosen the tie, to help them breathe while rescue is nigh.