In CPR training, what does ABC stand for?

The term ABC in CPR training stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. This sequence is critical because it outlines the immediate steps one should take when performing CPR on someone who is unresponsive and not breathing.

First, ensuring the airway is clear is vital, as it allows for effective breathing. If the airway is blocked, attempts to breathe for the victim will not be successful. Once the airway is secured, the next step is to check for breathing. If the individual is not breathing or only gasping, that indicates the need for rescue breaths and chest compressions. Lastly, circulation refers to maintaining blood flow through chest compressions, which is essential for delivering oxygen to vital organs until professional medical help arrives.

This systematic approach—checking and managing the airway, ensuring breathing, and supporting circulation—forms the backbone of first aid response in emergencies, making it a core principle in CPR training.