Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of the primary survey in emergency care?

1. Immediate treatment of injuries

2. Identification of the patient's medical history

3. Assessment of vital signs and stabilization

4. Psychological evaluation of the patient

The correct answer is: Assessment of vital signs and stabilization

The primary focus of the primary survey in emergency care is to assess vital signs and stabilize the patient. This initial evaluation is crucial as it allows first responders to quickly identify life-threatening conditions and prioritize interventions that are essential for the patient's immediate survival. During the primary survey, responders check for airway patency, breathing effectiveness, circulation status, and any immediate threats to life. The goal is to establish whether the patient is stable or needs urgent care for conditions such as respiratory distress, severe bleeding, or shock. In this context, while immediate treatment of injuries may come after the primary assessment, it doesn't take precedence in the primary survey itself. Identification of the patient's medical history and psychological evaluation are also important, but they are secondary to ensuring that the patient is hemodynamically stable and that life-threatening conditions are addressed first. Thus, the primary focus remains on assessing vital signs and stabilizing the patient before moving on to other aspects of care.