Definition of Disability

Disability

In emergency and trauma care, "disability" is the D in the ABCDE primary survey and refers to a rapid assessment of the patient's neurological status. After airway, breathing, and circulation have been addressed, responders quickly evaluate the patient's level of consciousness, pupil size and reactivity, and any obvious deficits.

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) or the simpler AVPU scale (Alert, responds to Voice, responds to Pain, Unresponsive) is commonly used to quantify the patient's responsiveness. A declining neurological status can signal serious problems such as brain injury, stroke, hypoxia, or low blood sugar, prompting urgent intervention and continued monitoring.

CPR Certification Labs provides hands-on, American Heart Association–aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification training to help providers master these life-saving skills.

Medical Definition & Meaning

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