What is the objective of the secondary assessment phase?

The objective of the secondary assessment phase is to identify and treat any life-threatening conditions that may not have been discovered during the primary assessment. This phase is critical as it allows the EMT to conduct a more thorough examination of the patient after ensuring that immediate threats to life have been addressed.

During the secondary assessment, the EMT gathers additional information about the patient's condition, which includes taking a more detailed medical history and performing a head-to-toe examination. While elements like taking the patient's history and conducting a physical exam are important components of this phase, the primary goal remains centered on discovering any serious, potentially life-threatening issues that may necessitate urgent intervention. By focusing on these critical aspects during the secondary assessment, EMTs are better equipped to provide comprehensive care and improve patient outcomes.