What does the "D" in the ABCDE mnemonic stand for?

The "D" in the ABCDE mnemonic stands for Disability. In the context of trauma assessment, this mnemonic is used to prioritize and streamline the evaluation of a patient. The ABCDE approach outlines a systematic method for assessing critical aspects of patient care in a trauma setting.

Specifically, after assessing the Airway, Breathing, and Circulation, the next step is to evaluate the Disability component, which typically involves a neurological assessment. This can include checking the patient’s level of consciousness using scales such as the Glasgow Coma Scale, evaluating pupil response, and noting any signs of neurological deficits. Identifying any disabilities or changes in the patient's neurological status is crucial, as it provides important information regarding potential brain injury or other serious conditions that may require immediate intervention.

Focusing on this aspect early in the trauma assessment ensures that any life-threatening neurological issues are quickly recognized and addressed.