CPR Is Now Spelled C-A-B

If you saw someone in sudden cardiac arrest, would you know what to do? According to new guidelines from the American Heart Association, you should begin chest compressions immediately.

The Association has changed the order of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from A-B-C (Airway-Breathing-Compressions) to C-A-B (Compressions-Airway-Breathing). Instead of tilting the victim’s head back to open the airway first, you should start with chest compressions to help pump oxygen-rich blood to the victim’s brain and heart sooner. The sequence change applies to adults, children and infants (excluding newborns).

If you see someone who suddenly collapses, the Association recommends Hands-Only CPR (CPR without breaths). Take the following steps: Call 9-1-1, and push hard and fast on the center of the victim’s chest (at a rate of at least 100 times a minute) until professional help arrives.