What’s ‘COWS’ in CPR?
A Mooving Acronym
When it comes to learning CPR and basic life support, you may encounter terms and acronyms that seem puzzling. ‘COWS’ might sound like a farm-related term, but in the context of CPR, it plays an essential role. Let’s dive into the pasture of first aid knowledge and understand what ‘COWS’ truly means.
Unraveling the ‘COWS’ Mystery
In CPR, ‘COWS’ isn’t about the four-legged animals we often find in pastures. It’s a mnemonic used to help you check a persons response in the response step of the DRSABCD action plan, a foundational aspect of basic life support.
Here’s what it stands for.
- C: Can you hear me?
- O: Open your eyes.
- W: What’s your name?
- S: Squeeze my hand.
What do you use it for? If someone has suffered a serious injury, it allows you to check if a person is responding. It helps you to check for signs that a person is conscious, even if they have suffered a serious injury.
Why COWS is Important in Basic Life Support
Here’s why the ‘COWS’ method is so vital:
- Quick Assessment: In an emergency, time is of the essence. ‘COWS’ enables you to check if someone is conscious without wasting too much time.
- Informed Decisions: Knowing the consciousness level helps the first aider decide what care is needed next. For example, if someone is unconscious, you may need to move their head to ensure the tongue isn’t blocking their airways. Lack of a clear response to ‘COWS’ may mean immediate medical assistance is required. It could save a life, even if it’s not quite superhero territory!
A Common Trap
Beware! A mere groan or limited reaction doesn’t qualify as a proper response.
If a person can’t do one of the four things mentioned in cows it is highly likely they are unresponsive
The Role of ‘COWS’ in DRSABCD
DRSABCD is a life-saving action plan used in first aid. The ‘R’ stands for Response, where ‘COWS’ comes in. To fully understand the DRSABCD process and how ‘COWS’ fits into it, check out our ultimate guide to DRSABCD.
Two Hands for Stroke
When seeing if someone can squeeze your hand, it’s best to hold both of their hands. If a person has had a stroke, they may be only able to squeeze on one side
Conclusion: Join the Herd of Life-Savers
So, now that you know ‘COWS’ in CPR has nothing to do with dairy farming and everything to do with life-saving techniques, you’re ready to take your first aid knowledge to the next level.
Whether you’re a seasoned first aider or just starting, understanding ‘COWS’ is part of building strong foundational skills. Come join one of our CPR courses to get hands on time practicing COWS and other first aid skills.
