Anytime you’re studying for a test, it’s automatically easier to memorize information if you can use or create an acronym.
In EMS, there’s an endless amount of terminology and phrases. When you’re on scene, it’s not helpful if you just say, “Don’t forget DCAP-BTLS.” Instead, you need to know what the DCAP-BTLS acronym means and how to apply it as part of the patient assessment.
What does DCAP-BTLS stand for?
DCAP-BTLS is an acronym for types of injuries you can observe during the physical exam of the patient. Here is what each letter stands for:
- Deformities
- Contusions
- Abrasions
- Punctures/penetrations
- Burns
- Tenderness
- Lacerations
- Swelling
DCAP-BTLS is commonly pronounced as D-cap-B-T-L-S. It’s a mouthful, but it helps guide the type of soft tissue and musculoskeletal injuries you might find during the physical exam.
How is DCAP-BTLS used during the physical exam?
Memorization may get you a passing grade on a test, but you must also understand and implement the knowledge you’ve learned in your day-to-day calls and patient responses as an EMT or paramedic. Here is what each letter in DCAP-BTLS means in the context of performing a head-to-toe physical exam or focused physical exam during the patient assessment.
Deformities
Is there an abnormality in the shape of a body part or organ compared to the normal shape?
Contusions
Do you notice bruising? In extreme cases, this can cause blood to seep, hemorrhage or extravasate into surrounding tissues.
Abrasions
How severe is the abrasion? Your treatment will vary depending on the severity, but be sure to always clean and remove any debris.
Punctures/penetrations
Penetrating trauma suggests an object didn’t pass through, while perforating trauma is
associated with an entrance and exit wound.
Burns
Treatment depends on the severity of the burn.
Tenderness
This shouldn’t be confused with pain. Tenderness is triggered by discomfort when an affected area is touched.
Lacerations
Treatment depends on the type, cause and depth of the wound. Minor wounds heal on their own, while puncture wounds are more prone to infection.
Swelling
This is an abnormal enlargement of a body part or area. Swelling may occur in response to infection, injury or disease.
OK, now say it with me. DCAP-BTLS: deformities, contusions, abrasions, punctures/penetrations, burns, tenderness, lacerations and swelling.
Do you like using medical abbreviations to recall information during on-scene patient care and assessment? Check out these other useful articles on how to collect a patient SAMPLE history and use OPQRST to understand a patient’s pain complaint.
This article, originally published on April 04, 2024, has been updated with a video and additional information.
