Checking airways before CPR on athletes may increase risk of death, study says

First response should be chest compressions rather than preventing ‘tongue swallowing’, researchers suggest

It is the simple life-saving sequence taught in many a first aid lesson: when someone collapses, first check their airways, then breathing and finally circulation before starting chest compressions if needed.

But experts have warned this approach to CPR could be increasing the risk of death for athletes experiencing a cardiac arrest.

Researchers in Israel say a focus on clearing airways, and in particular the mistaken belief it is possible to swallow your tongue, is leading to delays in starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation in such cases.

“The first response should be immediate initiation of chest compressions,” said Dr Dana Viskin, of Tel Aviv University.