What assessment is performed first in the Primary Survey?

In the Primary Survey of trauma care, the first assessment performed is the airway assessment. This is critical because ensuring that the airway is clear is a fundamental priority in emergency medicine; a blocked airway can lead to inadequate oxygenation and, if not addressed promptly, can result in serious complications or death.

The airway assessment involves checking for any obstructions that could impede a patient’s ability to breathe, such as blood, vomit, or foreign objects. If a patient's airway is compromised, immediate interventions, like positioning the patient or using airway adjuncts, may be necessary to secure their breathing.

Following the airway assessment, the next steps would involve evaluating breathing, circulation, and controlling any significant bleeding. This systematic approach prioritizes the most immediate threats to survival, with a clear focus on securing the airway first, which is why the airway assessment is the starting point in the Primary Survey.