In an emergency, knowing the correct steps to assess whether someone is breathing can make all the difference. The DRABC approach—short for Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, and Circulation —is a widely used framework in first aid, helping responders quickly assess and act. Here’s how to use DRABC to determine if an adult is breathing.

1. D – Danger

• First, check for any potential danger to yourself, the casualty, or others nearby. Make sure the area is safe before you approach, as this keeps you out of harm’s way and lets you focus fully on assisting the person. Look for hazards such as traffic, fire, or sharp objects.

• Once you’re certain the scene is safe, you can approach the casualty.

2. R – Response

• Try to get a response from the person by gently shaking their shoulders or speaking loudly. You might say, "Are you alright?" or "Can you hear me?"

  
  

• If the person responds, it indicates some level of consciousness and likely means they’re breathing. If there’s no response, move on to the next step.

3. A – Airway

• Ensure the airway is clear. Tilt the person’s head back slightly and lift the chin. This opens the airway and helps air flow into the lungs. An unconscious person’s tongue can block the airway, or there could be debris obstructing it.

  
  

• If you see any obvious obstruction, carefully remove it if it’s easy to reach.

4. B – Breathing

• Check for signs of breathing by following the “Look, Listen, and Feel” method:

• Look at the chest for any rise and fall.

• Listen for breath sounds by positioning your ear close to the person’s mouth and nose.

• Feel for breath on your cheek or hand to detect airflow.

  
  

• Observe these signs for at least 10 seconds. Normal breathing should be steady and rhythmic. If there’s no breathing, proceed to the next step, as CPR may be necessary.

5. C – Circulation

• Check for signs of circulation, such as a pulse, although this step is usually carried out by trained responders. Visible colour changes, like pale or bluish skin (known as cyanosis) around the lips or fingertips, may indicate a lack of oxygen

  
  

• If both breathing and circulation are absent, it’s time to initiate CPR, beginning with chest compressions.

Additional Tips and Final Thoughts

• If you’re unsure, call emergency services immediately. They can guide you on performing CPR and other first aid steps.

  
  

• Staying calm and using DRABC can help you systematically check if an adult is breathing, providing vital assistance until help arrives.

With these steps, you can confidently use DRABC to assess whether an adult is breathing in an emergency, ensuring you take the most effective action in those crucial moments.