Australian quick reference
What to do when someone is unresponsive
A calm, practical guide to checking an unresponsive person and getting urgent help.
Serious or worsening symptoms? Call Triple Zero (000).
The short answer
Check for a response and normal breathing. Call 000, start CPR if they are not breathing normally, and use an AED when available.
01
What to do first
- Make sure the scene is safe.
- Talk loudly and tap the shoulders to check for a response.
- Call 000 and send for an AED.
- Open the airway and check for normal breathing for up to 10 seconds.
- If breathing normally, place them in the recovery position and keep checking their breathing.
- If not breathing normally, start CPR.
02
What to avoid
- Do not give food, drink or medication to an unresponsive person.
- Do not leave them unattended if help is available.
- Do not mistake occasional gasps for normal breathing.
03
When to call 000
- Any unresponsive person needs urgent assessment. Call 000 immediately if they are not responding or not breathing normally.
04
What to monitor
- Keep watching breathing and be ready to restart CPR if it becomes abnormal.
Use the 000 call-taker instructions for infants and children.
Common questions
Quick answers
What if they are breathing normally?
Place them in the recovery position if safe to do so, call 000 and keep checking their breathing.
Independent editorial project. Guidance reviewed for Australian terminology and emergency escalation.