4. Standard Procedure for Adults (Mouth-to-Mouth)

The effective application of artificial respiration follows a structured sequence of steps designed to maximize safety and efficacy.

1. Ensure Safety and Check for Consciousness:
   • Assess the scene for any dangers (e.g., traffic, electrical hazards). Make the area safe or move the person to a safe location.
   • Check for responsiveness. If there is no response, call for emergency medical services (112) immediately or instruct someone else to do so.
2. Open the Airway:
   • Place the person on their back on a firm surface.
   • Use the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver: place one hand on the person’s forehead and two fingers of the other hand under the chin. Gently tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway, preventing the tongue from blocking it.
3. Check for Breathing (Look-Listen-Feel Method):
   • Lean close to the person’s mouth and nose for no more than 10 seconds.
   • Look for chest movement (rising and falling).
   • Listen for breath sounds.
   • Feel for the warmth of their breath on your cheek.
   • If there is no normal breathing, begin artificial respiration.
4. Administer Rescue Breaths:
   • Pinch the person’s nose closed with your thumb and index finger.
   • Take a normal breath and form a complete seal over the person’s mouth with your lips.
   • Deliver a steady breath lasting about 1 second, watching for the chest to rise.
   • Remove your mouth and allow the chest to fall as the air is exhaled.
   • Repeat to deliver a second rescue breath.