Definition & Operational Usage of Patient Assessment
What Is Patient Assessment?
The cornerstone of clinical evaluation starting with the MARCH algorithm (Massive hemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, Hypothermia) to rapidly identify life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Operational Safety Warning:Never bypass massive hemorrhage control for airway management in trauma.
Why Patient Assessment Matters on the Fireground
Dictates the clinical interventions required and urgency of transport based on physiological status.
Relevant NFPA Standards
- NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
- NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Field Procedures & Tactical Steps
- Ensure scene safety and don BSI.
- Perform primary survey focusing on ABCs or MARCH.
- Obtain baseline vital signs (BP, HR, SpO2).
- Conduct a targeted secondary physical exam.
- Document findings via SAMPLE and OPQRST formats.
Common Context & Application
Conducted on every EMS call prior to moving the patient.
Frequently Asked Questions about Patient Assessment
What is MARCH?
A trauma assessment sequence prioritizing massive bleeding.
How often are vitals reassessed?
Every 5 minutes for unstable patients, 15 for stable.
Other Names for Patient Assessment
evaluationclinical assessmentpatient evaluation
Patient Assessment may also appear in training materials, NFPA standards, or department SOPs as: evaluation, clinical assessment, patient evaluation.
Relevant Tools
Operational calculators related to Patient Assessment:
Category:EMS & Medical
— Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.