Final answer:
Activating the emergency response system is crucial in 1/2 rescuer adult BLS and should be done immediately after determining an adult is unresponsive and not breathing normally. It precedes chest compressions and follows checking for responsiveness, marking its essential role early in the BLS sequence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Activating the emergency response system is a critical step in the 1/2 rescuer adult Basic Life Support (BLS) sequence, which is designed to provide immediate aid to an adult experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or another life-threatening medical situation. The emergency response system should be activated as soon as a rescuer recognizes that an adult is unresponsive and not breathing normally. According to the American Heart Association's guidelines, the sequence of events for adult BLS includes checking the victim for responsiveness, calling for emergency medical services, providing high-quality chest compressions, delivering rescue breaths if trained to do so, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available.
- Check for responsiveness by tapping the person and shouting, 'Are you okay?'
- If there is no response, activate the emergency response system or direct someone else to do so, and fetch an AED if possible.
- Return to the individual and begin high-quality chest compressions.
- After 30 compressions, provide 2 rescue breaths if trained.
- Continue compressions and breaths at a rate of 30:2.
- Use an AED as soon as it's available and follow prompts.
These steps highlight the importance of starting the BLS protocol immediately and ensuring early activation of the emergency response system, as it is key to the chain of survival.