Pupil reactivity is part of which trauma assessment component?

• A. Disability assessment during the primary survey
• B. Secondary survey
• C. Reassessment in the field
• D. Triage category determination

Answer: (A)

Pupil reactivity is evaluated during the disability portion of the primary survey (the ABCDE approach). After securing the airway, breathing, and circulation, the clinician quickly checks neurologic status, including level of consciousness and pupil response. Pupils that react to light and are equal suggest intact brainstem function and adequate perfusion, while nonreactive, dilated, or unequal pupils can indicate intracranial injury or deterioration, prompting urgent intervention. This neurologic check is performed early as part of the primary survey, not during the secondary survey, ongoing field reassessment, or triage category determination.