After completing the primary assessment, what is the next step?

After completing the primary assessment, moving on to the secondary assessment is the appropriate next step. The primary assessment focuses on identifying and managing any life-threatening conditions, such as airway obstructions, breathing difficulties, or severe bleeding, ensuring that the most critical issues are addressed first.

The secondary assessment builds on this foundation by providing a more in-depth evaluation of the patient. This includes a detailed physical examination and obtaining a patient history, which can help identify other potential injuries or medical conditions. By conducting the secondary assessment, EMTs can gather vital information that is necessary for effective treatment and planning for transport to a healthcare facility.

Choosing to conduct a secondary assessment helps ensure that no significant issues are overlooked after the immediate threats to life have been managed. This thorough approach is essential for delivering comprehensive emergency care, allowing for better decisions regarding treatment and transport.