In the "CAB" acronym used in ACLS, what does the "C" stand for?

In the context of ACLS, the "C" in the "CAB" acronym stands for Compressions. This highlights the critical importance of high-quality chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Effective chest compressions help maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest, thereby increasing the chances of survival and positive neurological outcomes.

Compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a depth of at least 2 inches in adults, allowing full chest recoil between compressions. This focus on compressions emphasizes their role as the first step in the chain of survival, underscoring that immediate action can significantly improve the likelihood of a successful resuscitation.

Recognizing the importance of compressions in the early phases of cardiac arrest response is vital for anyone involved in ACLS protocols.