The DOTS mnemonic stands for:

• A. Deformity, Open Wounds, Tenderness, Swelling
• B. Distress, Obvious Wounds, Tearing, Symptoms
• C. Damage, Open Lacerations, Tenderness, Swelling
• D. Deformity, Occlusion, Tenderness, Swelling

Answer: (A)

DOTS is a quick trauma assessment cue used when evaluating suspected fractures, highlighting four key findings. Deformity signals abnormal alignment of a limb or body part. Open wounds indicate any skin breach over the injury, which can accompany fractures. Tenderness refers to focal pain at the injury site, and swelling reflects underlying tissue or bone injury. The set that lists these four terms exactly—Deformity, Open Wounds, Tenderness, Swelling—matches the mnemonic, so it’s the best choice. Other options mix terms not part of DOTS, such as distress, tearing, occlusion, or generic “symptoms,” which don’t represent the mnemonic used to screen for fracture-related injuries. Remember these four signs to guide immediate immobilization and transport decisions.