Initial approach to any acutely ill patient

What it is

Approach to any sick patient, in order. First, start with your ABCDE. Second, connect the patient to a monitor. Third, insert two large bore needle cannulas, 16 or 18 gauge, in the antecubital fossa. Fourth, while you are inserting the cannula, collect blood for investigations based on the clinical scenario, for example CCC plus ABG or VBG, or a septic work-up. Fifth, consider the need for an ECG. Sixth, consider the need for any imaging. And do not forget to call for help early.