Patient Assessment & Evaluation Flashcards

During a primary assessment at a worksite, what does the 'C' in the modified C-ABCDE framework stand for when dealing with trauma patients?

Answer: Catastrophic hemorrhage control

In trauma assessment the 'C' before airway stands for Catastrophic hemorrhage control, addressing life-threatening bleeding before the airway.

A construction worker is found unresponsive after a fall. What is the FIRST step in the primary assessment?

Answer: Establish scene safety and form a general impression

Scene safety and forming a general impression of the patient's condition must occur before any hands-on assessment begins.

Which AVPU level best describes a patient who only responds when you apply a sternal rub?

Answer: Pain

A patient who responds only to painful stimuli is classified as 'P' (Pain) on the AVPU scale.

When assessing skin condition during a primary survey, which combination of findings suggests severe shock?

Answer: Cool, clammy, pale

Cool, clammy, pale skin indicates peripheral vasoconstriction and reduced perfusion consistent with hypovolemic shock.

A worksite coach arrives to find a patient with a respiratory rate of 6 breaths per minute. What is the priority intervention?

Answer: Begin assisted ventilations

A respiratory rate below 8 bpm is critically slow and requires assisted ventilations to prevent hypoxic injury.

What does 'mechanism of injury' (MOI) help the rescuer determine during patient assessment?

Answer: The likely pattern and severity of injuries

MOI guides the rescuer to anticipate hidden or internal injuries based on the forces involved in the incident.

During a primary assessment, after controlling catastrophic bleeding and ensuring an open airway, what is assessed next?

Answer: Breathing adequacy

Following airway confirmation, breathing adequacy—rate, depth, and symmetry—is the next priority in the C-ABCDE sequence.