What type of assessment follows the primary assessment in patient evaluation?

The primary assessment is a critical first step in patient evaluation, focused on identifying and addressing immediate life-threatening conditions. Once this assessment is complete, it is essential to gather additional information to further understand the patient's condition and to provide necessary care.

Introducing the sample or baseline vitals at this stage is crucial because it allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of the patient. The SAMPLE acronym (Signs and Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, Events leading up to the injury or illness) provides a structured way to collect important medical history and contextual information. Additionally, establishing baseline vital signs—such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature—helps in tracking the patient's condition over time, indicating any deterioration or improvement.

While other options like treating obvious conditions, conducting a physical exam, and performing ongoing assessments are all important components in patient management, they occur at different stages or serve different purposes within the overall evaluation and treatment process. The correct choice emphasizes the importance of obtaining pertinent background information and establishing baseline measurements right after the immediate life-threatening issues have been addressed. This systematic approach supports ongoing care and facilitates better outcomes for the patient.