Patient Assessment
Patient assessment is the process an EMT or paramedic follows to evaluate an injured or ill patient. The process includes a scene size-up, which is the identification and mitigation of risks, a primary assessment to find and fix life threats and a secondary assessment to perform a focused history and physical exam of the patient. Each step is an opportunity to collect information that will guide treatment and inform a transport decision. In the EMS1 Patient Assessment topic find the latest news about patient assessment and top resources to improve your patient assessment skills.
The assessment sequence that could save lives — Are you using it?
Are there exceptions to this hard-and-fast EMS rule?
This real-world incident highlights how outdated tools and improvised techniques endanger patients — and why modernization is no longer optional
Three motorcyclists were killed in the crash on I-5 near Camp Pendelton
Understand why blood pressure and heart rate may not be a good early indicator of a hypovolemic shock state
A review of shock stages, signs and symptoms and treatments for the EMT or paramedic student
Waveform capnography provides real-time feedback that BLS providers can use to make treatment decisions and improve care
Despite a lack of evidence, applying a splint effectively has been and will likely continue to be a mainstay of EMS practice
A medic’s top pics for the right gear and tools to perform the job
Going back to the basics ensures a smooth EtCO2 reading and creates a calming environment for both the patient and provider
Abbott EMS personnel faced a man who had both legs amputated after being run over by train
The victims fell approximately 12 feet when the floor collapsed
Download this EMS1 patient simulation devices buying guide to learn key steps for product selection, purchasing and implementation
Training at the Mineral County Airport involved several departments and agencies dealing with a patient surge
What providers need to know about the use of semiglutide drugs for weight loss when it comes to personal health and patient care
Part of a large tree fell onto a cabin in Oceana County, trapping the counselor in her bed
Oakland police said several people were wounded during a sideshow shooting following a Juneteenth celebration that had thousands in attendance
First responders in Syracuse rescued several members of two families including a child trapped in a car
A teen hiking in the Spanish Fork Canyon area was trapped when a boulder fell on top of him, breaking his leg
NAEMSP and NATA recommend a cool first, transport second approach to exertional heat stroke treatment with cold water immersion therapy
Video shows a Riverside County helicopter crew rescuing the couple in a dry creek bed as the temperature neared triple digits
A long duration heat wave across the country is expected to last into Friday
Update your understanding of the role of antibiotics, fluid administration and coordination of clinical care
Workers in Raleigh were on top of the deck when it collapsed
Ogle County Sheriff’s Office deputies were responding to a report of a person threatening to kill themselves and others when they were immediately fired upon
Newport News first responders had not followed protocols and incorrectly declared Quandrell Williams dead
Learn what to look for and how to advocate for elderly patients who may be much sicker than they appear
Mechanisms, roles and potential risk: What medics need to know about aspirin
An EMT’s personal story and tips on how to communicate with individuals with aphasia in an emergency situation
A Deschutes County deputy was one of at least three people injured when a bull jumped out of the ring at the Sisters Rodeo
The pilot radioed he had engine problems shortly before trying to land on a street in Arvada
Nine patients were injured by gunfire in the downtown Madison shooting
Workers in the funeral home immediately started CPR but the woman died later at a hospital
