What does the term 'secondary survey' encompass in trauma assessment?

The term 'secondary survey' in trauma assessment refers to a thorough and systematic examination of the patient after the primary survey, which focuses on immediate threats to life. The secondary survey is designed to identify all injuries and obtain a complete history of the patient’s condition. This involves a comprehensive physical examination, where the healthcare provider assesses for any injuries that may not have been immediately apparent.

During this process, important details such as the mechanism of injury, time of injury, and the patient's medical history are gathered, allowing for a holistic understanding of the patient’s status. This thorough assessment helps ensure that no critical injuries are overlooked, which can be vital for both treatment and planning further interventions.

In contrast, the other options represent less comprehensive actions that do not encompass the full intent and scope of a secondary survey. A minimal assessment or just obtaining a verbal report lacks the depth required for proper diagnosis, while a quick observation of vital signs is too limited to effectively assess the overall condition of a trauma patient.