Which is NOT a life-saving step in emergency protocols?

Checking for responsiveness is a critical step in emergency protocols, particularly in assessments of a person's condition during a medical emergency. It helps determine if the individual is conscious and breathing, which informs subsequent actions. However, while it is essential for assessing the situation, it is not a direct life-saving intervention.

Conversely, restoring breathing, stopping bleeding, and treating for shock are all immediate actions that can directly save a life. Restoring breathing can be imperative if the person is not breathing; stopping significant bleeding can prevent shock and death due to blood loss; and treating for shock is essential to manage life-threatening conditions. Each of these steps directly addresses an immediate threat to life, whereas checking for responsiveness is more about assessing the person's status to guide further actions.