Situational Assessment

Implementing proper situational assessment protocol is a key step in providing first aid care appropriate to the situation. Scene safety is the first aspect of assessment. It begins as the first aid responder approaches the scene. During this phase, the responder surveys the scene to determine if there are any threats that may cause an illness or injury to the responder, bystanders, or may cause additional harm to the patient.

The initial scene assessment, physical assessment, and patient questioning (if they are conscious) is used to help identify those who require immediate first aid or professional medical care.

The biggest factor for deciding first aid procedures is quickly determining whether the situation is life-threatening or not. Determining the cause and severity of the illness or injury helps a responder decide which procedures to follow for treatment.

To learn more about Workplace First Aid visit our Workplace First Aid Online Training web page.