What does the "C" in the airway management sequence ABC stand for?

In the context of airway management and the ABC sequence, the "C" specifically refers to "Control bleeding." This is a crucial component of trauma assessment and management. Ensuring that a patient is free from significant external bleeding is vital since severe blood loss can quickly lead to shock or deterioration of the patient's condition. The ABC sequence typically emphasizes assessing and managing the airway (A) first, breathing (B) next, and circulation (C), which further incorporates controlling bleeding.

While the other options may seem relevant in certain contexts, they don't align with the standard ABC sequence. "Clear the airway," for instance, is a part of initial airway management but does not specifically represent the 'C' in this sequence. "Check responsiveness" is essential in assessing the patient but corresponds to the initial assessment rather than fitting into the ABC protocol. "Control circulation" isn't distinct from controlling bleeding; the emphasis is on managing bleeding as part of circulatory care.

Thus, controlling bleeding is a critical step in the overall management and stabilization of a trauma patient, making this the precise interpretation for "C" in the airway management sequence.