What does DOTS stand for in emergency assessment?

The term DOTS in emergency assessment is an acronym that stands for Deformity, Open wounds, Tenderness, and Swelling. This systematic approach is used by first responders and lifeguards to quickly assess a person's injuries during an emergency situation.

• Deformity refers to any abnormality in the shape or structure of a body part, indicating potential fractures or serious injuries.

• Open wounds are significant because they can lead to infection and may require urgent medical attention.

• Tenderness is assessed by applying gentle pressure to the area of concern, which helps identify areas that are painful and may indicate underlying injuries.

• Swelling often suggests inflammation or bleeding, which can also signify more serious trauma.

Together, these components allow lifeguards to quickly identify and prioritize treatment based on the severity of injuries when managing an emergency situation. The other choices include various combinations of symptoms that, while relevant to assessment in some contexts, do not accurately represent the established acronym DOTS used in emergency medical assessment.