DRS ABCDEFG

DRS ABCDEFG is an acronym used to guide the initial response to an unconscious person, particularly in situations where life-threatening emergencies are suspected. It stands for Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation and Don’t Ever Forget Glucose.

This sequence is a fundamental part of first aid training, designed to systematically prioritize actions to ensure the safety of the rescuer and the best possible outcome for the victim. Here’s a breakdown of each step:

  1. D – Danger:
    • Before approaching the casualty, check the surrounding area for any potential dangers to yourself, the casualty, or others.
    • This includes traffic, fire, gas, electricity, or any other hazards.
    • Ensure the scene is safe before proceeding.
  2. R – Response:
    • Check if the casualty is responsive.
    • Gently tap their shoulders and ask loudly, “Are you okay?”
    • Look for any response, including movement, sounds, or attempts to open their eyes.
    • This helps determine the level of consciousness.
    • AVPU and GCS
  3. S – Send for help:
    • If the casualty is unresponsive or their life appears to be in danger, call for emergency medical services immediately.
    • Provide them with as much information as possible about the casualty’s condition and your location.
    • In a rural location on/off-duty nurses, doctors, and paramedics may all need to be recruited.
  4. A – Airway:
    • Open the casualty’s airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin.
    • This maneuver helps remove any obstruction from the airway, ensuring it is clear for breathing.
    • Check for any visible blockages, such as food or foreign objects, and remove them if safely possible.
  5. B – Breathing:
    • Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
    • Watch for chest movements, listen for breathing sounds at the mouth and nose, and feel for breath on your cheek.
    • If the patient is not breathing normally, prepare to start CPR.
  6. C – CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):
    • If the patient is not breathing or not breathing normally (only gasping), start CPR immediately.
    • Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest, allowing full recoil between compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
    • If trained and willing, give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions, or, if not, continue with chest compressions alone.
  7. D – Defibrillation:
    • If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, turn it on and follow its voice prompts.
    • The AED will assess the casualty’s heart rhythm and advise whether a shock is needed.
    • Defibrillation can be crucial in the case of sudden cardiac arrest, as it may restore a normal heart rhythm.
  8. D – Disability:
    • C spine
  9. E – Exposure:
    • Look at the whole patient for injuries ie log roll and look at the back
  10. DEFG – Don’t Ever Forget Glucose!

The DRSABCD action plan is designed to be used in emergency situations to maximize the chances of survival until help arrives. It emphasizes the importance of quick and efficient action, starting from ensuring safety all the way to providing essential life support measures.