Definition & Operational Usage
The Primary Survey is a systematic, rapid assessment performed upon initial patient contact to identify and address life-threatening conditions, prioritizing airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure. This assessment is critical in emergency medical situations and is often integrated within frameworks such as the Incident Command System (ICS) to ensure coordinated care. Not to be confused with the Secondary Survey, which involves a more detailed examination of the patient's condition after immediate threats have been managed.
Category context: Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.
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