BPLS RAPID CLIN ASSESS OF INFNT CHILD ABCDE

Summary: the rapid clinical assessment of an infant or child

Airway and Breathing

• Effort of breathing
• Respiratory rate/rhythm
• Stridor/wheeze
• Auscultation
• Skin colour

Circulation

• Heart rate
• Pulse volume
• Capillary refill
• Skin temperature

Disability

• Mental status/conscious level
• Posture
• Pupils

Exposure

• Fever
• Rash and bruising

The whole assessment should take less than a minute.

Once airway (A), breathing (B) and circulation (C) are clearly recognised as being stable or have been stabilised, then definitive management of the underlying condition can proceed. During definitive management reassessment of ABCDE at frequent intervals will be necessary to assess progress and detect deterioration.