The ABC's of First Aid
When someone's safety is in danger, it takes quick thinking to make the situation better. Knowing CPR (cariopulminary resuscitation) means you are able to help someone who has endured some sort of trauma and needs help breathing. There are ABC's of CPR that give key clues to remember whenever performing the process.
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Features
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The ABC's of CPR are airway, breathing and circulation. Airway prompts the person giving aid to check for anything that hinders breathing. It may be necessary to lift the chin or place the person in danger on their side so that obstructions like vomit or the tongue are not nlocking anything. Breathing is the second portion of the ABC's. This includes getting air to the lungs by artificially breathing for the patient. Finally, circulation means getting airflow throughout the rest of the body. Chest compressions are necessary if it appears the patient has no pulse.
History
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The ABC's go back to the late 1950s, when Paul Safar wrote a book about CPR. He later presented the book findings at a medical convention. This is where the term ABC's of CPR gained momentum. Safar created a presentation with colleagues that garnered widespread use. Eventually, the American Heart Association adopted the process along with the entire medical society.
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Theories/Speculation
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Since the creation of the ABC's, there have been several modifications to the original theory. Newer protocols added "D" to the mnemonic. The "D" could stand for defibrillation, disability or deadly bleeding. An "E" has also been added in some cases to include environment, escaping air or expose and examine. In both cases, additional protocols were added to teach the ABC's to varying level of health providers. The rationale is that ambulance workers needed to have a different focus than a nurse.
Benefits
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The ABC's make CPR a theory that is doable for a layman. Health providers are not available in every emergency situation. The ABC's provide for basic information until more specialized help can arrive. Many people owe their lives to someone who attended a weekend CPR training certification.
Warning
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The inability to triage a dangerous situation can often make them worse. Basic components like airway constriction, breathing and airflow can get a patient in a stable position. The few minutes that the ABC's give a person in danger can allow an ambulance to make it to the scene and treat health issues.
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