Trauma Assessment Acronyms

Question 1

(Primary Survey)
G
C
S

Answer 1

Glasglow
Coma
Scale
a clinical tool used to measure a person’s level of consciousness.

Question 2

O
P
A

Answer 2

Observe (for)
Palpate (for)
Auscultate (listen to lung sounds)

Question 3

(O)
D
C
A
P
B
T*
L
S

Answer 3

Observe for
Deformities
Contusions
Abrasions
Punctures/Penetrations
Burns
Tenderness*
Laceration
Swelling

Question 4

(P)
T
I
C

Answer 4

Palpate for
Tenderness
Instability
Crepitus(wherever there are bones)

Question 5

(P)
T
R
E
D
G
H
P

Answer 5

ONLY IN THE ABDOMEN
Palpate for
Tenderness
Rigidity/ Rebound Tenderness
Evisceration
Distention
Guarding
Hot Belly
Pulsating Mass

Question 6

P
M
S
C

Answer 6

Pulse
Motor Skills
Sensory
Capillary Refill