ABC in First Aid: Understanding Airway, Breathing, Circulation

ABC stands for Airway, Breathing, Circulation—the three critical assessments in first aid.

Airway

• Check for obstruction.
• Clear by finger sweep if visible.
• If still blocked, perform Heimlich maneuver or CPR.

Breathing

• Check for breathing.
• If absent, start rescue breaths.
• If labored, position comfortably, loosen tight clothing.

Circulation

• Check pulse.
• If absent, start CPR.
• If present but unconscious, place in recovery position.

Always assess ABC first before any other first aid intervention.