Which sequence corresponds to the Primary Survey order?

• A. Breathing, Airway, Circulation
• B. Airway, Breathing, Circulation
• C. Circulation, Airway, Breathing
• D. Airway, Circulation, Breathing

Answer: (D)

The sequence tested is the order used to rapidly assess and support the most life-threatening needs first: Airway, Breathing, then Circulation. Start with the airway to ensure there is a clear path for air to reach the lungs; if the airway is blocked, attempts to breathe or ventilate won’t work and oxygen delivery is halted regardless of how well you support breathing later. Once the airway is confirmed patent or cleared, assess and support breathing to ensure effective ventilation and oxygen exchange. Only after you’ve established airway and breathing do you evaluate circulation—checking for a pulse, perfusion, and controlling obvious bleeding. Addressing circulation before you’re sure the patient is actually ventilating can miss ongoing hypoxia or ventilatory failure, which undermines the whole resuscitation effort. In short, the Primary Survey follows Airway, then Breathing, then Circulation to maximize the chance of quick, life-preserving intervention.