MCOLES State Licensing Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Question: 1 / 845

If you encounter a drowning victim who is not breathing, what should your first action be?

Begin performing artificial respirations

When encountering a drowning victim who is not breathing, the primary concern is to restore oxygen to their body. The correct first action is to begin performing artificial respirations. This steps addresses the critical need to supply oxygen to the victim, as they may be experiencing hypoxia due to lack of breathing.

While CPR is also crucial in cases of cardiac arrest or when there is no pulse, the immediate focus with a drowning victim is to ensure that oxygen is being delivered to the lungs. Artificial respirations can help reintroduce air into the lungs and restore the victim's ability to breathe.

Using an AED is important in cases of cardiac arrest but is not the immediate action when a person is not breathing; the primary aim first is to provide breaths. Waiting for EMS to arrive delays the critical intervention that could save the victim's life. Therefore, the urgency of the situation mandates starting artificial respirations right away.

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Use an AED to revive the victim

Perform CPR immediately

Wait for EMS to arrive

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