In the primary survey, after assessing responsiveness, what is the next step?

• A. Call for help.
• B. Open airway.
• C. Check breathing and circulation.
• D. Provide care.

Answer: (A)

When you’re doing the primary survey, the first priority after determining whether the person is responsive is to bring in help right away. Shouting for assistance and activating the emergency medical system ensures trained responders and an AED can get to the scene as quickly as possible, which is crucial for someone who is unresponsive or potentially in cardiac arrest. This step helps address the most time‑sensitive need: rapid access to advanced care.

Opening the airway and checking breathing are important next actions, and you would proceed to assess breathing and start CPR if there are no signs of normal breathing. Providing care is the overarching goal, but the immediate move to summon help is what sets the rescue effort in motion and buys valuable time.