ABCDE Approach

The ABCDE approach is used for performing an initial systematic assessment of any critically unwell or deteriorating patient, and intervening as necessary. Getting called to see unwell patients is part of the job of a junior doctor so it’s worth having a system in place! This method involves ordered examination, investigation and intervention, focusing on each major body system in turn. Any problems are addressed as they are identified with the patient being regularly re-assessed. The aim of th