Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Resource to Ensure Exam Success!

The term "Deformities" in the DCAP-BTLS acronym specifically refers to visible injuries that alter the normal appearance of a body part. This aspect of trauma assessment focuses on identifying any structural changes or irregularities in the body's anatomy due to injury.

When assessing a patient, healthcare providers look for signs such as fractures, dislocations, or other abnormalities that indicate trauma. These deformities are critical to identify as they can influence the course of treatment and provide insights into the mechanism of injury. Recognizing deformities enables responders to prioritize care and helps in forming a comprehensive treatment plan.

Other options address different aspects of trauma assessment but do not pertain directly to the meaning of "Deformities." Irregular vital signs, psychological effects, and changes in mobility reflect other considerations in patient evaluation and management but are outside the scope of physical deformities characterized within DCAP-BTLS.