Final answer:
The initial actions include checking the airway, starting chest compressions, administering rescue breaths, and calling for emergency assistance. Heimlich maneuver should be performed if choking is suspected, and CPR should be administered if the person is unresponsive and not breathing. Proper training is necessary to perform CPR effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial actions when someone needs emergency assistance include: first, checking for any obstructions in the airway and clearing them if necessary. If an individual appears to be choking, it is important to encourage them to cough and, if needed, provide back slaps or perform the Heimlich maneuver. For someone who is unresponsive, the priority is to ensure that they are on stable ground.
Secondly, assess whether they require CPR by checking for breathing and a pulse. If CPR is necessary, begin by performing chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute, to the beat of the song "Staying Alive". This helps to manually compress the heart and maintain blood circulation, particularly to the brain, which is vital for survival.
Thirdly, administer rescue breaths if trained to do so, alternating with chest compressions. Lastly, it is crucial to call for emergency medical assistance as soon as possible, ideally before starting CPR or immediately after ensuring the scene is safe and the individual is not responding.
Remember that proper training is essential for performing CPR effectively without causing injury to the patient, and constant recertification is recommended for those who are certified.