What are the primary assessment steps for a trauma patient?

The primary assessment steps for a trauma patient begin with ensuring scene safety, which is critical for the protection of both the patient and the healthcare providers. Once the scene is deemed safe, the primary assessment follows, focusing on identifying any immediate life threats through a systematic approach. This involves evaluating the patient's airway, breathing, circulation, and identifying any significant injuries.

After addressing immediate threats during the primary assessment, a secondary assessment is conducted. This step includes a more detailed examination of the patient, gathering a comprehensive medical history, and determining any additional injuries that may not have been apparent during the primary assessment. The final step in this sequence is the transport decision, which considers the patient's condition, the availability of resources, and the need for urgent care based on the findings.

This approach is foundational in trauma care as it ensures prompt recognition and management of critical conditions while maintaining the safety of all involved. In contrast, the other options integrate elements that, while important, do not align with the structured sequence of primary assessment steps required in trauma management.