Chapter 3: CPR – C-A-B

The American Heart Association (AHA) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) guidelines were updated in 2010, changing the traditional A-B-C order of CPR (Airway–Breathing–Compressions) to C-A-B: Compressions–Airway–Breathing. This change was made because compressions were often delayed with the A-B-C sequence. With the C-A-B method, compressions start immediately, getting vital blood flow to the brain and organs faster.

Here’s how the C-A-B approach works (we’ll cover each step in more detail in the next chapters):

• C is for Compressions:
  Give chest compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute. The standard cycle is 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths (30:2). Proper depth and full chest recoil are also important and will vary by age.
• A is for Airway:
  Open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift method.
• B is for Breathing:
  Give 2 rescue breaths after each round of compressions.