In emergency medical assistance, what is the first step of patient assessment?

In emergency medical assistance, the first step of patient assessment involves assuring site safety. This is a critical action as it ensures that both the responder and the patient are in a safe environment, free from any potential hazards. Before approaching the patient, it is vital to assess the scene for dangers such as oncoming traffic, fire, chemical spills, or any other risks that could further harm the patient or rescuers.

Ensuring site safety prevents additional injuries and allows for a focused assessment and intervention. Once the scene is confirmed to be safe, responders can then move on to evaluate the patient’s condition, assess physical injuries, or begin interventions such as CPR or calling for professional help, as necessary. This foundational step is essential for effective emergency response and helps optimize patient outcomes.