DRSABCD-Adult & Child

DRSABCD - Action Plan Adult and Child

Emergency First Aid Response: CPR & Defibrillation Guide

1. Assess the Situation for Safety

Before approaching, ensure the area is safe for yourself, others, and the casualty. Look for hazards like traffic, fire, or electrical dangers.

2. Check for Response

  • Gently squeeze shoulders and ask loudly, “Can you hear me? What’s your name?”

  • No response? Call Triple Zero (000) immediately for an ambulance or instruct someone else to call.

  • Response? Keep the person comfortable, monitor their condition, and check for injuries.

3. Send for Help & Defibrillator

  • Call emergency services (000) if not already done.

  • Request an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available—this increases survival chances in cardiac arrest.

4. Open the Airway

  • Check the mouth for blockages (food, vomit, etc.).

    • If clear: Tilt the head back (chin lift for adults, slight tilt for children) to open the airway.

    • If blocked: Roll the person into the recovery position, clear obstruction with fingers, then reopen the airway.

5. Check for Breathing

  • Look, Listen, Feel for chest movements, breath sounds, or airflow for up to 10 seconds.

    • Not breathing normally? Start CPR immediately.

    • Normal breathing? Place in the recovery position and monitor until help arrives.

6. Perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

  • Hand Position: Heel of one hand on the center of the chest, other hand on top.

  • Compression Depth: Push down ⅓ of chest depth (about 5-6 cm for adults).

  • Rate: 100-120 compressions per minute (to the beat of Stayin’ Alive).

  • Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 breaths (tilt head, pinch nose, seal mouth, blow for 1 second).

  • Continue CPR (30:2 cycle) until help arrives, the casualty recovers, or an AED is ready.

7. Use a Defibrillator (AED) if Available

  • Turn on the AED and follow the voice prompts.

  • Apply pads to the bare chest as directed.

  • Stand clear while the AED analyses heart rhythm.

  • Deliver shock if advised, then resume CPR immediately.

Key Takeaways for Saving Lives

  • Early CPR & defibrillation double survival rates in cardiac arrest.

  • Call 000 first—every second counts in a medical emergency.

  • AEDs are safe for public use—just follow the instructions.

Stay prepared—learn CPR and save a life today! 🚑⚡

This guide aligns with Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) guidelines, ensuring best practices for first aid response. Always seek professional training for certified CPR and AED courses.