According to the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC), the DRSABCD action plan outlines the 7 key steps to performing CPR in Australia. These steps are vital for increasing survival rates in cardiac arrest situations:
- D – Danger: Ensure the area is safe for you, the bystander, and the victim. Remove hazards if possible.
- R – Response: Gently shake and shout to check if the person is conscious. Look for verbal or physical response.
- S – Send for help: Immediately call Triple Zero (000) or instruct someone else to do so. Ask for an AED.
- A – Airway: Open the airway using the head-tilt-chin-lift method to ensure air can enter the lungs.
- B – Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Gasping is not normal.
- C – CPR: Begin CPR with 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. Use two hands for adults, one hand or two fingers for children and infants.
- D – Defibrillation: Use an AED as soon as it’s available. Turn it on and follow the audio/visual prompts.
Performing CPR quickly and correctly can double or triple the chances of survival. For best outcomes, always follow ARC-endorsed training programs.
