<P> ABC and its variations are initialism mnemonics for essential steps used by both medical professionals and lay persons ( such as first aiders ) when dealing with a patient . In its original form it stands for Airway , Breathing , and Circulation . The protocol was originally developed as a memory aid for rescuers performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation , and the most widely known use of the initialism is in the care of the unconscious or unresponsive patient , although it is also used as a reminder of the priorities for assessment and treatment of patients in many acute medical and trauma situations , from first - aid to hospital medical treatment . Airway , breathing , and circulation are all vital for life , and each is required , in that order , for the next to be effective . Since its development , the mnemonic has been extended and modified to fit the different areas in which it is used , with different versions changing the meaning of letters ( such as from the original ' Circulation ' to ' Compressions ' ) or adding other letters ( such as an optional `` D '' step for Disability or Defibrillation ) . </P>
<P> ABC and its variations are initialism mnemonics for essential steps used by both medical professionals and lay persons ( such as first aiders ) when dealing with a patient . In its original form it stands for Airway , Breathing , and Circulation . The protocol was originally developed as a memory aid for rescuers performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation , and the most widely known use of the initialism is in the care of the unconscious or unresponsive patient , although it is also used as a reminder of the priorities for assessment and treatment of patients in many acute medical and trauma situations , from first - aid to hospital medical treatment . Airway , breathing , and circulation are all vital for life , and each is required , in that order , for the next to be effective . Since its development , the mnemonic has been extended and modified to fit the different areas in which it is used , with different versions changing the meaning of letters ( such as from the original ' Circulation ' to ' Compressions ' ) or adding other letters ( such as an optional `` D '' step for Disability or Defibrillation ) . </P>
what does a.b.c stand for in emergency resusitation
what does a.b.c stand for in emergency resusitation
Airway , Breathing , and Circulation
Airway , Breathing , and Circulation