In CPR, what does the acronym C-A-B stand for?

The acronym C-A-B in CPR stands for Compressions, Airway, and Breathing. This order emphasizes the critical importance of starting chest compressions immediately when performing CPR on an adult who is unresponsive and not breathing normally.

Starting with compressions ensures that blood circulation is prioritized in order to maintain vital organ perfusion. High-quality chest compressions help facilitate blood flow, which is crucial for increasing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives. Once compressions are initiated, the next step is to open the airway to allow for effective rescue breaths if they are being given, followed finally by actual breathing support.

This sequence—Compressions first—supports the modern CPR guidelines that focus on maintaining circulation before addressing breathing, reflecting a shift from older methods that prioritized airway and breathing first. Understanding this sequence is vital for effective response during a cardiac arrest situation.