In the hands-on check, if the person is breathing but unresponsive, what is the correct order to check body regions?

• A. Start at feet, then legs, torso, and arms
• B. Start at arms, then head, chest, and abdomen
• C. Start at head, then chest, abdomen, and legs
• D. Start at head, then arms, chest, and legs

Answer: (C)

In a hands-on check of a person who is unresponsive but breathing, you want a quick, structured head-to-toe assessment that prioritizes central injuries first. Starting at the head allows you to note any obvious head or facial injuries and ensure there’s no airway compromise from swelling or bleeding. Next, you move to the chest to assess for chest trauma and to confirm that breathing is continuing effectively; problems here can be life-threatening and require immediate attention. Then you check the abdomen for distension or tenderness, which could signal internal bleeding or organ injury. Finally, you assess the legs for obvious injuries and signs of impaired circulation, which helps determine overall survivability and mobility without delaying the more critical central checks. This central-to-peripheral progression helps identify life-threatening conditions early and minimizes unnecessary movement of the patient’s spine when trauma is possible.