What is the correct order of the ABCDE approach in emergency assessment?

• A. Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure
• B. Airway, Circulation, Breathing, Disability, Exposure
• C. Breathing, Airway, Circulation, Disability, Exposure
• D. Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Exposure, Disability

Answer: (A)

In emergency assessment, you address life-threatening problems in order of immediacy: secure the airway, ensure adequate breathing, then assess and support circulation, followed by a quick neurological check (disability), and finally expose the patient to look for injuries while preventing heat loss. Securing the airway first is crucial because without a clear airway you cannot effectively ventilate or oxygenate the patient. If the airway is open and ventilation is adequate, you can then focus on breathing to ensure gases are exchanged properly. Only after breathing is stabilized should you evaluate circulation to confirm perfusion to vital organs and control life-threatening bleeding. Quick disability assessment provides rapid information about brain function and guide further management, and exposure last allows a thorough examination for hidden injuries while keeping the patient warm.