What is the 3 C's in CPR?

The 3 C's in CPR can refer to different teaching frameworks depending on the course, but the most commonly taught 3 C's are Check, Call, and Compress or Check, Call, Care. In many CPR and first aid courses, especially those from the American Heart Association and Red Cross, the 3 C's are taught as steps to follow when you encounter an emergency. First C is Check, check the scene for safety to ensure it is safe for you to help, check the person for responsiveness, breathing, and pulse. Second C is Call, call for help by calling emergency services like 911, activating emergency response system, and getting an AED if available. Third C is Compress or Care, start care by providing chest compressions for CPR, rescue breathing if trained, and using AED, or more generally provide care until help arrives. Another version taught in some contexts is Check, Call, Compress, emphasizing early chest compressions. Some programs also teach 3 C's as Check, Call, Care for general first aid. The idea is to have a simple memorable sequence to ensure rescuer safety, activation of help, and provision of care. Always follow your local CPR training guidelines.