Essential first-aid acronyms that can help save lives:

Acronym Full Meaning Purpose/Definition How to Perform
CAB(S) Circulation, Airway, Breathing, Safety Primary assessment protocol for life support 1. Check pulse and circulation:
  1. Ensure airway is clear
  2. Check breathing
  3. Verify scene safety | | AVPU | Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive | Assessment scale for consciousness levels | Check if patient:
  4. Is alert and oriented
  5. Responds to voice
  6. Responds to pain
  7. Shows no response | | FAST | Face, Arms, Speech, Time | Quick stroke assessment tool | 1. Check for facial drooping
  8. Test arm strength/drift
  9. Listen for speech problems
  10. Note time and call emergency | | SAMPLE | Signs/Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last meal, Events | Patient history gathering system | Ask patient about:
  11. Current symptoms
  12. Known allergies
  13. Current medications
  14. Medical history
  15. Recent meals
  16. Incident details | | RICE | Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation | Treatment protocol for soft tissue injuries | 1. Stop using injured area
  17. Apply ice (20 min intervals)
  18. Wrap with compression bandage
  19. Keep area above heart level |