3. ATI: 4.Airway, Breathing, and Circulation

Question 1

airway, breathing, and circulation

Answer 1

• priority of initital assessment
• referred to as ABCs
• all are critical to survival
• alteration in one could indicate threat to life/need for resuscitation

Question 2

airway

Answer 2

• highest priority action
• must be open and clear
• client might need:
• temporary oral or artificial airway (tracheostomy or endotracheal tube)
• supplemental oxygen

Question 3

breathing

Answer 3

• second highest priority
• essential for oxygen exchange:
• respiratory rate within expected reference range
• adequate ventilatory effort
• client might need:
• artificial ventilation
• negative pressure gradient in pleural cavity
• chest tube might re-establish negative pressure

Question 4

circulation

Answer 4

• third highest priority
• heart rate and blood pressure within expected reference necessary for adequate cardiac, cerebral, and peripheral perfusion
• chemical and/or physical cardiac support
• resuscitation
• supplemental fluids (to re-establish intravascular fluid volume and blood pressure

Question 5

client care focus

Answer 5

• health care providers use ABC framework frequently
• dictates order of care in emergency situations and with unstable clients
• helps recognize early signs of complications