What are the lifesaving steps in the ABCs of medical treatment? (first step)

• A. Open the airway and restore breathing
• B. Stop the bleeding
• C. Prevent shock
• D. Check for responsiveness

Answer: (A)

In emergencies, air must reach the lungs before anything else. The first step in the ABCs is to open the airway and restore breathing because without a clear airway, air cannot get into the lungs and ventilation cannot happen. Once the airway is open and breathing is established or assisted, you move on to breathing support and then circulation (such as stopping bleeding or preventing shock) as needed. Checking responsiveness is important for overall assessment, but the immediate lifesaving focus within the ABCs is ensuring an open airway so breathing can occur.