In CPR, what does A stand for?

In CPR, what does A stand for?

• A. Airway
• B. Circulation
• C. Breathing
• D. Acute

Answer: (A)

Airway stands for making sure the path for air to reach the lungs is open. In CPR you focus on opening the airway first so that any rescue breaths you give can actually enter the lungs. This involves positioning the head to keep the airway clear (head-tilt and chin-lift for non-injury cases, or a jaw-thrust if a neck injury is suspected), and removing or clearing obvious obstructions if safe to do so. A clear airway is essential because without it, ventilation won’t oxygenate the blood, even if chest compressions are being performed. Depending on the protocol, you may do chest compressions first or open the airway after starting compressions, but the purpose of the airway step is always to ensure air can move into the lungs.

Airway stands for making sure the path for air to reach the lungs is open. In CPR you focus on opening the airway first so that any rescue breaths you give can actually enter the lungs. This involves positioning the head to keep the airway clear (head-tilt and chin-lift for non-injury cases, or a jaw-thrust if a neck injury is suspected), and removing or clearing obvious obstructions if safe to do so. A clear airway is essential because without it, ventilation won’t oxygenate the blood, even if chest compressions are being performed. Depending on the protocol, you may do chest compressions first or open the airway after starting compressions, but the purpose of the airway step is always to ensure air can move into the lungs.