Basic resuscitation mnemonic

First steps in basic life support

The mnemonic

DR ABC

What each word stands for

  • DDanger — check the scene is safe
  • RResponse — shake and shout
  • AAirway — open it
  • BBreathing — look, listen and feel for up to 10 seconds
  • CCirculation — compressions if no signs of life

Why it matters clinically

Gives an orderly start to assessing an unresponsive person.

Where it stops being reliable

Current adult guidelines start compressions first for cardiac arrest, so use it as an assessment order only.

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

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Basic resuscitation mnemonic?

DR ABC. It helps you recall: First steps in basic life support.

What does "D" stand for?

Danger — check the scene is safe

What does "R" stand for?

Response — shake and shout

What does "A" stand for?

Airway — open it

What are all the parts of the DR ABC mnemonic?

D: Danger — check the scene is safe; R: Response — shake and shout; A: Airway — open it; B: Breathing — look, listen and feel for up to 10 seconds; C: Circulation — compressions if no signs of life.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Basic resuscitation in Anaesthesia.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Current adult guidelines start compressions first for cardiac arrest, so use it as an assessment order only.

How is this useful clinically?

Gives an orderly start to assessing an unresponsive person.

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 Basic resuscitation.

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.