1. PATIENT ASSESSMENT Overview

2. 2  The assessment process is your tool to: ensure the safety of yourself and others get help when you need it rationally and accurately evaluate the severity of a person's injuries make prudent decisions about treatment and transportation

3. 3 4 Stages of Assessment  Scene Survey Is it safe and do you need help?  Primary Assessment Are there life-threatening injuries?  Transportation Decision Is it a Load and Go or Stay and Treat?  Secondary Assessment Establish baseline vital signs and thoroughly reassess patient for all injuries

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5. 5 Priorities  Danger  Airway  Breathing  Circulation  Major bleeding  Level of consciousness  Spinal column  Take action to manage priority problems as they are found

6. 6 Finding Injuries  LOOK for: Deformities Contusions Abrasions Punctures Burns Lacerations Swelling  FEEL for: Tenderness Instability Crepitus Listen to what the patient has to say

7. 7 Vital Signs  Measure and record: Breathing rate (Depth and Regularity) Pulse rate (Strength and Rhythm) Blood pressure (Cuff Optional) Level of consciousness (on AVPU scale) Pupil reaction to light (Size and Equality) Skin condition (Temperature, Colour and Moisture), Patient's classification of pain (1-10)

8. 8 Documentation  Best way to pass on your information  Include the mechanism of injury and the position of the patient, as well as what you found during your assessment  Include any treatments you administered  Your handwriting must be legible