What is the focus when conducting a Secondary Survey?

The focus of a Secondary Survey is to conduct a detailed physical examination of the patient after the initial Primary Assessment has been performed. During the Secondary Survey, the responder systematically checks the patient for hidden injuries and assesses their overall condition more thoroughly. This part of the assessment helps identify any issues that may not have been obvious during the initial assessment.

In this phase, the responder should check for vital signs, skin condition, and any signs of trauma or medical problems. This detailed examination is crucial for understanding the full extent of a patient’s injuries or medical issues and determining the appropriate care and transportation needs.

While other aspects, such as ongoing monitoring (which continues to be important) and scene safety, are vital in their own right, they are not the primary focus of the Secondary Survey. The detailed physical examination is critical in determining the necessary interventions and treatment for the patient.