BLS

Comprehensive study of bls covering fundamental concepts and advanced applications.

What is BLS?The ABCs: Airway, Breathing, CirculationCPR: Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths
Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)Special Situations: Choking and DrowningTeam Dynamics and Communication in BLS
BLS in Schools and SportsBLS at Home and in the CommunityHow to Get Certified in BLS
Staying Calm Under PressureEffective BLS Practice and Preparation
What is BLS?The ABCs: Airway, Br...CPR: Chest Compressi...Using an AED (Automa...Special Situations: ...Team Dynamics and Co...BLS in Schools and S...BLS at Home and in t...How to Get Certified...Staying Calm Under P...Effective BLS Practi...
Basic Concepts

The ABCs: Airway, Breathing, Circulation

Mastering the ABCs

The foundation of BLS is the ABCs:

  • Airway: Is the person's airway open and clear?
  • Breathing: Is the person breathing normally?
  • Circulation: Is the heart pumping blood (pulse present)?

Step-by-Step

  1. Check Responsiveness: Tap and shout. Is the person awake?
  2. Call for Help: Get someone to call emergency services.
  3. Airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
  4. Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breaths for no more than 10 seconds.
  5. Circulation: Check for a pulse and signs of circulation.

If you find a problem at any step, act immediately! For example, if the person isn’t breathing, start rescue breaths and chest compressions.

Making It Memorable

The ABCs help you remember what to check and what to do first in a high-stress situation.

Examples

  • A lifeguard checks a swimmer’s airway and breathing before giving rescue breaths.

  • A coach performs chest compressions when an athlete collapses with no pulse.

In a Nutshell

The ABCs help rescuers quickly check and support a person’s vital functions.

Key Terms

Airway
Path through which air enters and leaves the lungs.
Breathing
Process of moving air in and out of the lungs.
Circulation
Movement of blood throughout the body.
Next
CPR: Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths