Assessment terms describe how a person’s condition is observed and evaluated during an emergency. This includes terminology related to consciousness, breathing, pulse, skin signs, pain levels, and responsiveness. These words help people understand how first aiders describe what they see.
Capillary refill time is a quick and easy test that shows how well blood is flowing through the tiny vessels near the skin, helping first aiders and health workers spot serious issues like shock or dehydration fast. Just a gentle press on the nail bed reveals a lot about your heart and circulation without any tools needed!
Checking a pulse means feeling for a heartbeat to learn about circulation. Learn what it can tell you in first aid and when not to let it delay urgent action.
Vital signs are basic signs that show how well a person's body is working, such as breathing, pulse, alertness, and skin changes. Learn what to watch for.
Unresponsive means a person does not react and needs urgent first aid assessment. Learn what to check first, when to use recovery position, and when CPR is needed.
An altered state of consciousness means someone isn’t fully awake or aware, which can signal a serious health issue. Recognizing these changes quickly is key to getting the right help and keeping them safe.
The Glasgow Coma Scale is a way to score how responsive a person is after a serious illness or injury. Learn what it measures and why it matters.
Pulse is the beat you can feel in an artery each time the heart pumps blood. Learn how to check pulse, what it can tell you, and when pulse concerns need urgent help.
Unconscious means a person is not awake and cannot respond. Learn how this term relates to unresponsive, recovery position, and CPR in first aid.