In first aid, what does 'ABC' stand for?

In first aid, 'ABC' stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. This sequence is critical because it establishes the priority of care when assessing a patient, especially in emergency situations.

Firstly, ensuring the Airway is clear is vital, as an obstructed airway can quickly lead to a life-threatening situation. If the airway is blocked, the individual cannot breathe, resulting in a lack of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs.

Secondly, addressing Breathing comes next because even if the airway is clear, the person may still be unable to breathe properly due to various injuries or conditions. Checking for adequate breathing helps to determine whether the patient requires rescue breaths or other interventions.

Lastly, Circulation involves assessing the patient's heart function and blood flow. If there's no circulation, the body cannot effectively deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which is essential for survival.

This order of priorities—Airway, Breathing, Circulation—ensures a systematic approach to life-threatening situations, maximizing the chances of survival and recovery. Misunderstanding or rearranging these components could lead to ineffective treatment and harm the patient.