Rules question on poisoning

[Iago]

If a character drops to zero HP while poisoned (either as the result of poison damage or merely while suffering the "poisoned" condition), does the "disadvantage on all checks" apply to the death saving throws as well?

On one hand, it says "disadvantage on attack rolls and ability checks," (PHB 292) which Death Saves are not ("Unlike other saving throws, this one isn't tied to any ability score," (PHB 197). However, "spells and features that improve your chances" do apply to the save (see PHB 197). I would certainly think that the Lucky feat (which specifically references saving throws, PHB 167), or the halfling's racial ability, would apply here.

My personal take is that it would impose disadvantage, but I'd prefer something at least semi-authoritative rather than "sounds good..." if the other players object.

[Kryx]

A death saving throw is not an ability check. It is a saving throw.

Disadvantage does not apply. Though modifiers to saving throws would apply.


Whenever you start your tum with 0 hit points, you must make a special saving throw, called a death saving throw, to determine whether you creep closer to death or hang onto life.