02 Primary Assessment Skill Flashcards
What is the first step in assessing a patient?
Form General Impression
This includes evaluating the patient’s overall appearance and the environment.
How is Level of Consciousness (LOC) determined?
Using AVPU: Alert, Verbal, Painful, Unresponsive
This system provides a quick assessment of a patient’s responsiveness.
What should be done if life-threatening bleeding is found?
Control immediately
Immediate action is crucial to preserve life.
What three factors are assessed in circulation?
Pulse, skin color, temperature, moisture, capillary refill
These factors help evaluate a patient’s perfusion status.
What pulse should be checked if the patient is alert?
Radial pulse
The radial pulse is accessible and provides a good indication of circulation.
What pulse should be checked if the patient is unconscious?
Carotid pulse
The carotid pulse is central and easier to palpate in unconscious patients.
What pulse should be checked in infants?
Brachial pulse
The brachial pulse is used for infants due to their smaller size.
What is the purpose of spinal immobilization?
Consider if there is potential spinal injury
This is crucial to prevent further injury during transport.
When should assisted ventilations be used?
If patient is responsive with inadequate depth/rate or unresponsive with inadequate breathing
Specific adult and pediatric rates help determine the need for intervention.
What are the criteria for expedited transport and ALS backup?
Poor general impression, unresponsive/alters LOC, respiratory difficulty, shock, complicated childbirth, chest pain with BP < 90 systolic, uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, pediatric or geriatric concerns
These criteria indicate the need for advanced medical intervention.
What should be assessed during the primary assessment?
Life threats, airway, breathing, circulation
This is a systematic approach to emergency medical assessment.
What does a patient’s overall appearance help determine?
Stability: Appears Stable/Potentially unstable/Unstable
This assessment can guide immediate treatment decisions.
What is the first inquiry to make when identifying yourself to a patient?
Ask if you can help
This establishes communication and consent.
Fill in the blank: The primary assessment checks the patient for _______.
life threats
Identifying life threats is crucial for prioritizing treatment.
