Mountain Cards
First aid · primary survey

Patient Primary Survey (DR ABCDE)

The first, life-saving check on a casualty: Danger, Response, <C> catastrophic bleeding, Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability and Exposure — worked through in order.

A memory aid, not medical training. In an emergency always dial 999 / 112 (or call/text 999 and ask for Mountain Rescue) as soon as it's safe to do so.
Patient Primary SurveyDR <C> ABCDEDDangerMake sure the area is safe for you, the casualtyand any bystanders before approaching.RResponseGently shake their shoulders and ask loudly: 'Areyou OK? Open your eyes.'CCatastrophic bleedingControl any life-threatening bleeding first — firmdirect pressure or a tourniquet.AAirwayOpen the airway: tilt the head back and lift thechin with two fingers.BBreathingLook, listen and feel for normal breathing for nomore than 10 seconds.CCirculationCheck for and control any severe bleeding, thentreat for shock.DDisabilityCheck their level of response (AVPU) and look forsigns of head, spinal or stroke injury.EExposureExamine for other injuries, then cover andinsulate them from the cold and ground.Mountain CardsFirst-aid primary survey

Use of this tool is offered on the condition of a donation to Severn Area Rescue Association.