ABC of first aid

ABC of first aid

ABC stands for the body's three vital needs.

A stands for airway. The airway needs to be open so that oxygen containing air can enter the lungs.

B stands for breathing by which the body inhales fresh air and expels stale air.

C stands for the circulation of the blood, which distributes oxygen around the body.

When dealing with an unconscious casualty, the first aider must check that the casualty has a clean airway, is breathing and has a pulse that indicates blood circulation.

Airway

IInhaled foreign bodies can block the airway. By tipping the head back and straightening the airway, a first aider can look for blockages.

Breathing

If breathing stops, the first aider blows air at regular intervals through the casualty's mouth into their lungs. This is called artificial ventilation.

Circulation

If a pulse is absent, the first aider may carry out heart massage (external chest compression) to try to stimulate the heart into action.