Know Your ABC's!
Knowing your ABC's is arguably one of the most important factors as a healthcare provider. Having the ability to perform this quick assessment could make all the difference for a victim's survival. Checking level of consciousness is the deciding factor as to which course of action must be taken. After deciding the scene is safe and approaching a victim who appears unresponsive, checking the airway, breathing, and circulation are vital in determining further action. Listed below are each of the steps regarding this procedure, so if faced with this scenario one will have the knowledge to immediately provide care.
It is important to note that prior to approaching a victim who may appear motionless, always assure the scene is safe to avoid putting yourself in danger as well.
It is important to note that prior to approaching a victim who may appear motionless, always assure the scene is safe to avoid putting yourself in danger as well.
- Airway- upon approaching a victim, immediately check level of response. If the person is determined to be unresponsive, the first step is to maintain an open airway. This can be done through the head tilt chin lift method. Placing the palm of your hand across the victims forehead and two to three fingers directly beneath the chin, tilt the head backwards while lifting up slightly with your fingers. This will allow appropriate air flow.
- Breathing- the next step to this procedure is looking, listening, and feeling for the victim's breath. Placing your ear near the mouth, so your eyes can look down the chest, listen and feel for exhalation of the victim while noting whether or not his or her chest is rising and falling with ventilation.
- Circulation- finally, whether or not the victim is breathing, checking proper circulation by means of the carotid pulse is the last of this three step procedure. While leaving your hand on the forehead to maintain an open airway, place your index and middle fingers along the carotid artery. The artery on the side you are evaluating from is ideal to avoid passers-by from suspecting that you may have caused harm or are attempting to, as it may appear so. Checking breathing and circulation