Which formula used in BLS for life saving of the victim?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Explanation

The current Basic Life Support (BLS) guideline for resuscitation follows the C-A-B sequence: Circulation, Airway, Breathing.
This approach prioritizes the immediate initiation of chest compressions (Circulation) to restore blood flow to the brain and heart, which is the most critical intervention.
The previous A-B-C protocol caused delays in starting chest compressions, which was found to decrease survival outcomes in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.

Option A: A-B-C (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) is an outdated protocol for most cardiac arrest situations.
Option B: A-C-B (Airway, Circulation, Breathing) is not a recognized or logical sequence in any resuscitation protocol.
Option C: B-A-C (Breathing, Airway, Circulation) is not a recognized or logical sequence in any resuscitation protocol.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Basic Life Support (BLS) sequence for resuscitation as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Immediate initiation of high-quality chest compressions (the 'C' in C-A-B) is the single most important factor in improving survival and neurological outcomes after sudden cardiac arrest.
As first responders to many in-hospital emergencies, nurses must be proficient in the C-A-B sequence and be able to initiate CPR without hesitation.
What if? If the victim is a known drowning victim, the priority may shift back to A-B-C. The arrest is likely due to lack of oxygen (asphyxia), so providing two initial rescue breaths before starting compressions can be beneficial.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is the correct sequence of actions in Basic Life Support (BLS).
Recall the current international resuscitation guidelines (e.g., from the American Heart Association).
Remember the major change in guidelines from A-B-C to C-A-B.
Understand the rationale for this change: prioritizing chest compressions (C) to minimize any delay in circulating blood to the brain and heart.
Evaluate the options based on this knowledge. 'CAB' directly matches the current protocol.
Eliminate 'ABC' as the outdated protocol and 'ACB' and 'BAC' as incorrect, non-standard sequences.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) pp. 763-765, 762-764

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 3 p. 45-47

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