What it means
For moles: Asymmetry, Border that is irregular, Color that varies, Diameter larger than 6 mm (about a pencil eraser), and Evolving (changing). For emergencies: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability (a quick neurological check) and Exposure (uncovering to look for injuries while keeping the client warm). The setting tells which one is meant.
For the nurse
Teach clients to check their own skin monthly with the mole ABCDEs and to report a mole that changes. In an emergency, fix each problem in ABCDE order before moving to the next.
Related terms
airway
The passages that carry air into and out of the lungs, from the nose and mouth to the smallest air tubes.
melanoma
A cancer that starts in melanocytes, the cells that give skin its color.
skin cancer
Cancer that starts in the cells of the skin.