CPR Chart - DRABC

DR ABC, One of the most widely used adaptations is the addition of "DR" in front of "ABC", which stands for Danger and Response. This refers to the guiding principle in first aid to protect yourself before attempting to help others, and then ascertaining that the patient is unresponsive before attempting to treat them, using systems such as AVPU or the Glasgow Coma Score. As the original initialism was devised for in-hospital use, this was not part of the original protocol.

When approaching what looks like a seriously injured or unconscious person to administer first aid. This "DR ABC" can help you to remember what to do......

Danger - Check the area, make sure YOU are safe and so are people around you.

Response - Can the casualty hear your voice? Can they open and close their eyes? are there any movements? Do they respond to touch?

Airway - Is there a blockage in the throat or have they swallowed their tongue? Is the head in a suitable position (check first aid manual for details) to allow breathing? Care should be taken not to make anything worse but the airway MUST be cleared if it is blocked.

Breathing - Can the casualty breathe clearly? Once the airway is clear, is there any other problem - the lungs for example?

Circulation - IS there a pulse? Is the heart beating? Is the pulse weak / strong / racing