In the secondary survey, the mnemonic DCAP-BTLS stands for which set of injury findings?

• A. Deformities, Contusions, Abrasions, Penetrations, Burns, Tenderness, Lacerations, Edema.
• B. Deformities, Contusions, Abrasions, Penetrations, Burns, Tenderness, Lacerations, Swelling.
• C. Deformities, Contusions, Bruises, Penetrations, Burns, Tenderness, Lacerations, Swelling.
• D. Deformities, Contusions, Abrasions, Penetrations, Burns, Tenderness, Lesions, Swelling.

Answer: (B)

In the secondary survey you use DCAP-BTLS as a quick, systematic checklist to document injuries on the skin and soft tissues. Deformities suggest fractures or dislocations; Contusions are bruises; Abrasions are superficial scrapes; Penetrations include stab or gunshot wounds; Burns are tissue damage from heat or chemicals; Tenderness is pain on palpation indicating underlying injury; Lacerations are tears in tissue; Swelling signals inflammation or bleeding into tissues. The listed set matches this standard mnemonic exactly, whereas the other options change terms (edema, bruises, or lesions) that don’t align with the accepted wording. This mnemonic helps ensure you don’t overlook injury findings during the secondary survey.