In the ABCDE framework, the 'Disability' step primarily involves what action?

• A. A quick neurological assessment
• B. A full physical examination
• C. Blood pressure measurement
• D. Imaging studies

Answer: (A)

The main idea of this step is to rapidly gauge brain function and level of consciousness. After addressing immediate threats to the airway, breathing, and circulation, you perform a quick bedside neurologic check to see how alert and responsive the patient is, which helps you detect serious problems like altered mental status, stroke, head injury, or severe hypoglycemia. Using a simple scale such as AVPU or the Glasgow Coma Scale, you assess consciousness, as well as basic neurologic signals like pupil reactivity and motor responses. This rapid observation is intentionally concise and focused, guiding urgency of further evaluation and interventions. It’s not a full physical exam or imaging study, which are addressed after stabilizing the patient.