What action is indicated for a casualty who loses consciousness?

Evaluating for an airway obstruction is the appropriate action for a casualty who loses consciousness because maintaining a clear airway is critical for survival. When a person becomes unconscious, their ability to maintain their own airway diminishes. This can lead to choking or aspiration if the airway is not protected. By assessing for an obstruction, you can identify any blockages that may be preventing air from reaching the lungs and take appropriate measures to clear the airway.

Immediate recognition and management of airway issues is essential, particularly in unconscious patients, as their respiratory drive may be compromised or completely absent. Even if the casualty appears to be breathing, a complete evaluation is necessary to ensure that they can continue to do so effectively.

Other options, while they may have their places in different scenarios, do not address the immediate need to secure the airway. For instance, beginning CPR is crucial only when there is no pulse or breathing; waiting for emergency personnel does not provide any immediate assistance, and ensuring a casualty is seated does not apply once they are unconscious. The first priority for an unconscious individual is to ensure that their airway is open and unobstructed.