Emergency Response: Primary Survey Guide

Introduction

• Purpose: Teach what to do if someone is found collapsed.
• Initial Assessment: Called a "Primary Survey" to determine treatment priority.

DRABC - Steps to Follow

DRABC is a mnemonic to remember the steps of a primary survey:

1. Danger

• Check for any danger to ensure it's safe to approach the casualty.
• Avoid becoming a casualty yourself.

2. Response

• Attempt to get a response from the casualty:
  • Introduce yourself and ask questions.
  • If no verbal response, kneel beside and gently shake their shoulders.
  • Speak directly: "Hello, it's [Your Name], can you hear me? Open your eyes."
  • Pinch earlobe for pain response if necessary.
• Use the AVPU Scale to determine level of response:
  • A: Alert
  • V: Responds to Voice
  • P: Responds to Pain
  • U: Unresponsive

3. Airway

• If the casualty is unresponsive:
  • Open the airway by placing a hand on the forehead and tilting the head back with fingers under the chin.
• If alert and speaking, airway is clear.

4. Breathing

• Check for normal breathing:
  • Place ear and cheek over nose and mouth, look for chest rise.
  • Observe for 10 seconds.
• If not breathing normally:
  • Call for help. Dial 999/112 and bring an AED.
  • If alone, use speakerphone to call for help and begin CPR.

5. Circulation

• Check for signs of severe bleeding:
  • Look over the body for any severe bleeding.
  • Control bleeding to prevent shock.
  • Call 999/112 if necessary before continuing.
• If no bleeding is found, proceed.

Conclusion

• Complete the primary survey efficiently using DRABC.
• Deal with life-threatening conditions immediately.
• Call for emergency help when needed (999/112).
• Consider supporting St John Ambulance at sja.org.uk/donate