During an ABC assessment at which stage would you start CPR?

• A. A
• B. C
• C. D
• D. B

Answer: (D)

When you’re doing an ABC assessment, you move through airway, then breathing, and then circulation. The moment you determine there is no effective circulation (no palpable pulse and no perfusion), you must start CPR immediately to keep blood moving and oxygen circulating. In this particular sequencing, that resuscitation action is grouped with the stage labeled as the stage where defibrillation or related resuscitation steps are addressed, so the point to begin chest compressions is at that stage. If a pulse is present, you don’t start CPR—you continue to monitor and support breathing. Start CPR as soon as you’ve established the absence of circulation, and keep going until help arrives or a return of pulse occurs.