What is the first action to take when performing CPR on an unresponsive adult?

When performing CPR on an unresponsive adult, the first action to take is to call for emergency assistance. This step is crucial because while you may begin to provide life-saving interventions, professional medical help is critical for the patient's survival and can provide advanced care beyond basic CPR. By calling for emergency assistance, you ensure that trained medical personnel are en route to the scene, which is essential in increasing the chances of survival for the person in need.

Initiating chest compressions or checking for breathing are important parts of the CPR process, but they should occur after emergency services have been called. Checking for a pulse can also be a part of the assessment but takes time and can delay needed immediate interventions. Promptly alerting emergency services is a priority that allows for professional assistance to arrive as quickly as possible.