Complications and emergencies mnemonic

Systematic approach to a critically ill or deteriorating patient

The mnemonic

ABCDE

What each word stands for

  • AAirway
  • BBreathing
  • CCirculation
  • DDisability — consciousness, glucose, pupils
  • EExposure — examine fully and prevent hypothermia

Why it matters clinically

Treat life-threats in order as they are found.

Where it stops being reliable

In cardiac arrest the compressions-first order (CAB) is used instead.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Complications and emergencies mnemonic?

ABCDE. It helps you recall: Systematic approach to a critically ill or deteriorating patient.

What does "A" stand for?

Airway

What does "B" stand for?

Breathing

What does "C" stand for?

Circulation

What are all the parts of the ABCDE mnemonic?

A: Airway; B: Breathing; C: Circulation; D: Disability — consciousness, glucose, pupils; E: Exposure — examine fully and prevent hypothermia.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Complications and emergencies in Anaesthesia.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

In cardiac arrest the compressions-first order (CAB) is used instead.

How is this useful clinically?

Treat life-threats in order as they are found.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Anaesthesia question about Complications and emergencies.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.