What does the acronym MARCH stand for in first aid?

MARCH is a critical acronym used in first aid that stands for Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiratory, Circulation, and Hypothermia. This sequence is designed to prioritize life-saving interventions in emergency situations.

The first component, Massive hemorrhage, emphasizes the immediate need to control severe bleeding, which is vital for preventing shock and death. The second part, Airway, stresses the importance of ensuring the patient can breathe, as an obstructed airway is a life-threatening condition. Following that, Respiratory focuses on assessing and supporting the patient’s breathing and ensuring proper oxygenation. Circulation addresses the need to check pulse and blood flow, assessing for shock or the need for resuscitation measures. Finally, Hypothermia highlights the importance of preventing body temperature loss, especially in severe injuries or prolonged exposure to cold environments.

This systematic approach ensures that the most life-threatening issues are addressed first, which is crucial in emergency medical situations where timing can be the difference between life and death.