What is commonly referred to as the "CAB" of CPR?

The "CAB" of CPR stands for Compressions, Airway, and Breaths, which outlines the critical steps to take when performing CPR on an adult. The correct order emphasizes the importance of starting with chest compressions as soon as possible, due to their crucial role in maintaining blood flow and ensuring that vital organs, especially the brain, continue to receive oxygen-rich blood during a cardiac arrest situation.

Starting with compressions helps to quickly generate blood flow, even before rescue breaths are administered. This approach reflects the current recommendations in CPR training, which prioritize compressions over breaths, particularly in situations where the rescuer is untrained or unsure about providing rescue breaths.

Following the initial compressions, it's essential to check the airway and, if needed, open it to provide effective rescue breaths. This sequence—Compressions first, then Airway management, followed by Breaths—ensures the best chance of survival while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive.

Other combinations mentioned do not adhere to this sequence and therefore do not reflect the latest CPR guidelines or practices, which clearly specify the "CAB" approach.