The correct sequence of cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is:

Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Nursing Foundation

Easy

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

The correct sequence for CPR is C-A-B: Compressions, Airway, Breathing.
This protocol was updated by the American Heart Association (AHA) to prioritize chest compressions.
Starting with compressions minimizes the delay in circulating blood to the brain and heart, which is the most critical factor for survival in the initial moments of cardiac arrest.
The recommended rate for chest compressions is 100 to 120 per minute with a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) for adults.
After 30 compressions, the rescuer should open the airway and deliver 2 rescue breaths.

Option B: A-B-C (Airway, Breathing, Compressions) is the outdated CPR sequence. It unnecessarily delays chest compressions, which are the most critical life-saving action.
Option C: A-C-B (Airway, Compressions, Breathing) is an illogical and incorrect sequence that is not part of any recognized CPR guideline. Opening the airway without giving breaths before starting compressions is not an effective procedure.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct sequence (C-A-B) is provided in the options.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain The concept tested is the correct, universally accepted sequence of steps for performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) according to current Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The emphasis on the C-A-B sequence reinforces the critical nursing principle of immediate intervention. In a cardiac arrest, every second without circulation decreases the chance of survival and good neurological outcome.
Nurses must be proficient in high-quality CPR, which includes pushing hard (at least 2 inches), pushing fast (100-120/min), and allowing for full chest recoil with minimal interruptions.
What if? If a nurse witnesses a patient collapse from a known opioid overdose, the priority might shift slightly. While activating emergency response and being prepared for C-A-B, the immediate administration of naloxone and supporting ventilation could be the most critical initial actions, as the primary problem is respiratory depression.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the 'correct sequence' of CPR.
Recall the current guidelines for Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association (AHA).
Remember the mnemonic C-A-B, which stands for Compressions, Airway, Breathing.
Evaluate the given options against this standard. Option A, 'CAB', directly matches the current guideline.
Recognize that 'ABC' is the older, outdated sequence and is therefore incorrect as the primary answer.
Eliminate 'ACB' as it is not a recognized or logical sequence. This confirms 'CAB' as the only correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The concept tested is the correct, universally accepted sequence of steps for performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) according to current Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines.
Stem keywords: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, CPR, sequence
Lead-in keywords: correct sequence

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