What does AVPU stand for in first aid?

Answer 1

The acronym AVPU is used to determine the alertness and level of consciousness of a patient. It is commonly taught in first aid courses and used by triage personnel, first aiders and emergency medical technicians.

Alert - is alert and responsive; eyes open spontaneously when approached.

Voice - responds to voice.

Pain - responds to a painful stimuli.

Unresponsive - does not respond to a painful stimuli.

AVPU is pivotal to medical staff as it outlines the mental capacity of the patient in light of their accident. Once the level of AVPU is established, the medical personnel can work through the priority action and treatment plan.

Usually, medical or first aid personnel will circle the relevant letter. For example, if the patient responds to voice, the V on the AVPU is circled or highlighted.

Answer 2

AVPU stands for Alert, Verbal response, Pain response, and Unresponsive. It is a method used in first aid to quickly assess a person's level of consciousness.