The procedure works by following the acronym SABCD.
** It is important to emphasize that this chapter outlines a procedure for general patient care. For an unconscious and/or trauma patient, see procedures in the relevant lessons below **
Safety | Confirmation of responder and patient safety; scanning the area, and calling for help (ambulance/fire department/police). | |
Airway | Checking level of consciousness (via AVPU method) and ensuring an open airway. | |
Breathing | Assessment of respiratory status (breathing depth, breathing rate, breathing rhythm). Consideration of respiratory aid with a bag valve mask; rescue breaths (for a patient with a respiratory rate above 30 breaths per minute or less than 8 breaths per minute); consideration of external medical oxygen by mask. | |
Circulation | Assess peripheral heart rate (number of beats per minute, rhythm, intensity). Assess blood pressure. Observe skin color (color – normal, pale, blue, yellow). | |
Disability | Observation of neurological condition (apathetic, agitated, lucid, cognizant of time and place). General strength test. Observe facial symmetry. |