Firefighters are extricating the driver of a small car that was struck broadside by a delivery truck at a moderate rate of speed. The patient was unrestrained, and the car sustained severe damage to the driver's side. As the man is pulled from the car, you note severe deformity to his left thigh area. Your primary assessment shows the patient to be responsive to painful stimuli, with an open airway and adequate breathing at 20 breaths per minute. His radial pulse is present but rapid at a rate of 124. After applying oxygen, the EMT should immediately:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the patient's condition—responsive only to painful stimuli, with a rapid heart rate, and after ensuring the airway is open and breathing is adequate—the next step is to conduct a rapid secondary assessment. This is to identify any other injuries or conditions that could be life-threatening or need immediate attention. Checking the leg and applying a splint are important but come after a rapid secondary assessment to prioritize care.

Firefighters Are Extricating the Driver of a Small Car That