In the rapid on-field assessment sequence, which component follows Airway and Breathing?

• A. Circulation
• B. Disability
• C. Exposure
• D. Airway

Answer: (A)

In the rapid on-field assessment sequence, the aim is to quickly identify and treat life-threatening issues. After you confirm the airway is clear and the person is breathing adequately, the next focus is Circulation. This step checks whether the heart and vessels are delivering blood to vital organs and whether there is any major bleeding or signs of shock. You’d assess pulse quality, skin color and temperature, capillary refill, and look for obvious external bleeding, then control any life-threatening bleeding with direct pressure or tourniquets and arrange for rapid transport if needed. Disability and Exposure come after Circulation to evaluate neurologic status and uncover injuries that may be hidden under clothing or body hair. So Circulation is the immediate next component following Airway and Breathing.