In what order should the ABCs be assessed in an emergency situation?

In the context of emergency medical response, the correct order to assess the ABCs, which stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a patent airway and ensuring adequate breathing before evaluating circulation.

Beginning with the airway is critical because an obstruction can rapidly lead to life-threatening situations. If a patient's airway is compromised, even the most effective ventilations and circulatory support may become futile. Once the airway is secured, the next step is to assess breathing. This involves checking for adequate ventilation and the effectiveness of the patient's respiratory efforts. Finally, circulation is assessed through pulse checks and evaluating the patient for signs of shock or circulatory failure.

This systematic approach aligns with the basic life support principles, where the focus is on immediate threats to life. Therefore, the correct sequence starts with Airway assessment, followed by Breathing, and concludes with Circulation, which ensures that immediate life-saving interventions can be performed effectively.