ABC Assessment: A Comprehensive Guide to Airway, Breathing, and Circulation

Airway

Is the airway open and unobstructed? Assess for:

• Stridor
• Hoarseness
• Drooling
• Difficulty breathing

Breathing

Is the patient breathing spontaneously? Assess for:

• Tachypnea (rapid)
• Bradypnea (slow)
• Dyspnea (labored)
• Cyanosis (bluish skin)

Circulation

Is circulation adequate? Assess for:

• Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Hypotension (low BP)
• Signs of shock

ABC is the foundation of primary patient assessment in emergencies.