What technique is used to check responsiveness in a victim?

The technique used to check responsiveness in a victim is to lightly shake the shoulder and shout. This method is effective because it is a quick and immediate way to assess whether a person is conscious and able to respond. The physical action of shaking the shoulder can elicit a reaction if the person is responsive, while the verbal stimulus of shouting their name can help determine their level of awareness.

In emergency response situations, it's crucial to assess responsiveness quickly to decide the next steps, such as calling for help or initiating CPR. This approach balances the need to wake the person without causing excessive harm or discomfort, which might occur with vigorous shaking. Observing for responses such as eye opening, movement, or verbal sounds indicates that the victim is at least partially aware of their surroundings.

Other methods, such as asking them to answer questions, may not be appropriate immediately, especially if the individual is unconscious or semi-conscious. Ignoring the person and waiting for help will not provide any immediate insight into their condition and can lead to delays in critical care. Therefore, the technique of gently shaking and shouting is the most appropriate and widely taught method in Basic Life Support training for assessing responsiveness.