DCAP BTLS TIC Quiz and Flashcards for Emergency Medicine

Study Notes

DCAP BTLS TIC Overview

DCAP BTLS TIC is a mnemonic used for assessing traumatic injuries in emergency medicine.
Each letter represents specific types of injuries or observations to look for during evaluation.

Deformity

Characterized by misshapen body parts or structures.
Suggestive of underlying fractures or dislocations.

Contusions

Commonly known as bruises that indicate localized bleeding under the skin.
Present as visible discoloration and can indicate the severity of trauma.

Abrasions

Refers to scratches or scrapes on the skin's surface.
Often results from friction against rough surfaces, indicating potential for infection.

Punctures/Penetrations

Wounds created by sharp objects piercing the skin.
These types of injuries risk infection and require careful management.

Burns

Can be caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity, categorized by degree of severity (1st, 2nd, 3rd).
Treatment depends on the depth and extent of the burn.

Tenderness

Refers to pain or discomfort when an area is touched or palpated.
Can indicate underlying injury to bones, muscles, or organs.

Lacerations

Deep cuts typically caused by sharp objects.
Require proper cleansing and sometimes suturing to prevent infection.

Swelling

Indicates accumulation of fluid in tissues, often resulting from inflammation or injury.
Can cause pain and restrict movement, serving as a sign of trauma.

TIC (Tenderness, Instability, Crepitus)

Tenderness: Pain upon touch, a critical indicator of injury.
Instability: Abnormal mobility in joints or bones, signaling potential fractures or dislocations.
Crepitus: A popping sound due to trapped air in tissues or joints, indicating serious underlying issues.

Summary of Terms

Deformity: Misshapen structures indicating injury.
Contusion: Bruise showing discoloration, reflective of localized trauma.
Abrasion: Surface scrape prone to infection.
Laceration: Deep cut needing careful treatment.
Instability: Increased joint mobility hinting at fractures.
Crepitus: Popping sounds from air in tissues or joints.

Description

This quiz covers the DCAP BTLS TIC mnemonic for assessing traumatic injuries in emergency medicine. Each section focuses on different injury types, including deformities, contusions, abrasions, punctures, and burns, highlighting their characteristics and implications for treatment.