Primary Survey

Question 1

Why do you use a primary survey?

State the two sequences of primary survey.

Answer 1

Immediately identify & treat life-threatening conditions.

Cardiac arrest
DRCAB

All other presentations
DRABC

Question 2

Outline the DRCAB survey

Answer 2

D: Danger
• Is there any danger to myself, my partner,
bystanders & the pt?
• Do I need QPS, QFES, Energex, QRail

R: Response
• AVPU

C: Circulation 
 • Pulse check / Paed cap refill
 • Consider: 
    • Defibrillation
    • Haemorrhage control
    • Sitrep
    • Leg elevation (except for spinal)
    • IV / Fluid

A: Airway
 • Patency 
   • Consider:
    • C-spine
    • Simple airway manoeuvres 
    • Suctioning
    • OPA, NPA, LMA, ETT

B: Breathing
• Adequate ventilation
• Consider:
• Positioning, O2, IPPV