What is the first step in the patient assessment order?

The first step in the patient assessment order is the scene size-up. This crucial step involves evaluating the safety of the scene for both the rescuer and the patient before any care is provided. During the scene size-up, the lifeguard or rescuer assesses potential hazards, the mechanism of injury, the number of patients, and the need for additional resources or support. This assessment ensures that the environment is safe to approach and that proper precautions are taken.

Conducting a scene size-up sets the foundation for the entire assessment process. It allows the lifeguard to determine how best to approach the situation and prepares them for the subsequent steps in the patient assessment, which include getting consent, performing a primary assessment, and treating any obvious conditions. Without adequately sizing up the scene, the responder may put themselves or others at risk when approaching the patient. This emphasizes the importance of this initial step in making informed decisions about providing care effectively and safely.