What is one crucial action to take after checking for consciousness in CPR?

After checking for consciousness in CPR, one crucial action to take is to call for EMS, or emergency medical services. This is vital because, if a person is unresponsive and not breathing or not breathing normally, they require immediate medical assistance. Calling for EMS ensures that professional medical help is on the way while you can continue to provide necessary help to the victim.

In the context of CPR protocols, assessing for consciousness is typically the first step, followed by ensuring that advanced medical support is notified promptly. This action significantly raises the victim's chance of survival by preparing to provide advanced care as soon as possible.

Following this action with steps such as assessing breathing, starting compressions, or providing rescue breaths is important, but only after EMS has been alerted. This sequence is part of the wider response plan during a medical emergency, ensuring help is on the way while immediate care is administered.