What does the acronym ABC stand for in first aid?

The acronym ABC in first aid stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation, which are the three critical steps to assess and manage an individual's condition in an emergency. This approach is fundamental because, in any life-threatening situation, ensuring that a person's airway is clear is the immediate priority. Once the airway is secured, the next step is to assess the adequacy of their breathing. If the person is not breathing effectively, rescuers must take appropriate actions such as providing rescue breaths or using an automated external defibrillator (AED) if necessary.

Finally, circulation refers to the effectiveness of the heart and blood flow, which can be evaluated through checking for a pulse and assessing the person for signs of shock. By adhering to this ABC framework, responders can prioritize their interventions to stabilize a patient's condition potentially before professional medical help arrives. Understanding this sequence is vital for anyone trained in first aid, as it ensures the most critical threats to life are addressed first.