What should you do first if a child appears unresponsive?

When a child appears unresponsive, the first step is to follow the shout-tap-shout sequence. This method involves gently shaking the child and shouting their name to determine if they respond. It is a crucial initial assessment as it helps establish whether the child is truly unresponsive or if they may simply be in a deep sleep or experiencing another condition that allows for a response.

This step is essential because it helps you gauge the child's level of consciousness, which informs the subsequent steps you must take. If there is no response after this initial assessment, it signifies that the child may require immediate intervention.

Following the shout-tap-shout sequence is more appropriate than beginning CPR right away or calling for emergency services because you first need to assess the child's responsiveness. If there is no response, you can then move on to calling for emergency help and starting CPR if necessary. Checking for bleeding is important but does not take precedence over quickly assessing responsiveness in an emergency situation.