Which of the following lists the four life-saving steps?

• A. Check for blocked airway and restore breathing, Check for bleeding, Check and treat for shock, Dress and bandage the wound
• B. Check for breathing, Call for help, Check for pulse, Apply ointment
• C. Assess for fractures, Immobilize, Elevate, Reassure
• D. Check for signs of infection, Clean wound, Bandage, Seek help

Answer: (A)

In emergencies the most immediate threats to life must be handled first: can the person breathe, is there dangerous bleeding, and is perfusion or shock a risk? The sequence starts with checking for a blocked airway and restoring breathing, because without an open airway and adequate breathing the person can deteriorate within minutes. Next, you look for bleeding and control it, since heavy bleeding can rapidly reduce blood volume and threaten circulation. Then you assess and address shock, which aims to maintain blood flow to vital organs and keep the person stable while further help is on the way. Finally, you dress and bandage the wound to protect it from contamination and prevent further blood loss. This set of steps focuses on preventing the most immediate, life-threatening problems in order, rather than on treatment that is not immediately life-saving (like applying ointment) or addressing non-emergency issues such as fractures or infection.