ABCDE approach

Also known as: ABCDE

A systematic method for assessing and treating an acutely unwell patient — Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure — dealing with each before moving on.

Even in communication stations, framing the management of a deteriorating patient around ABCDE signals safe, structured emergency thinking.

More glossary terms

AMPLE historyA focused emergency history — Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last meal, Events — taken quickly in acute situations.
ARCPThe annual assessment that decides whether a doctor in training has met the competencies to progress to the next stage.
AVPU scaleA rapid way to grade consciousness — Alert, responds to Voice, responds to Pain, Unresponsive — used in initial assessment.
Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS)A brief 10-point screening tool for cognitive impairment, often used to detect confusion or possible dementia.

Put it into practice

Rehearse PLAB 2 stations with AI simulated patients and get structured feedback after every consultation.

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