12. What is the first life-saving step to take?

Answer: B

Explanation:

Call 911

The first life-saving step to take in an emergency situation is to call 911. This action ensures that professional medical help is on the way, which is crucial for the safety and well-being of the individual in distress.

A) Find the teenager's parent

While informing a parent may be important, it is not the immediate action that ensures the teenager receives urgent medical assistance. Delaying the call for help by searching for a parent could result in a worsening of the situation.

B) Call 911

Calling 911 is the most critical first step as it activates emergency services, allowing trained professionals to respond quickly. This action prioritizes the health and safety of the teenager, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical attention as soon as possible.

C) Start chest compressions

Starting chest compressions may be necessary in cases of cardiac arrest, but it should only be done after ensuring that emergency services have been contacted. Without calling 911 first, the individual may face delays in receiving comprehensive medical care.

D) Make the teenager comfortable

Making the teenager comfortable can be a supportive action, but it is not a life-saving step. Prioritizing comfort over contacting emergency services can lead to critical delays in treatment that could jeopardize the teenager's health.

Conclusion

Calling 911 is undeniably the first life-saving step to take, as it secures professional medical intervention swiftly. All other options, while potentially helpful, do not address the immediate need for emergency assistance and could lead to negative outcomes if not executed in the correct order. Prioritizing a call for help is vital in any emergency situation.