1 Trauma Scene Safety and Initial Assessment Free Online FlashCards

What should you do before approaching a trauma scene?

Pause and look for hazards such as traffic, fire, unstable structures, downed wires, weapons, hazardous substances, or ongoing violence.

When should you call 911 for a trauma emergency?

Call 911 in the United States if someone is unresponsive, is not breathing normally, has life-threatening bleeding, or may have another serious injury.

How should you approach a responsive injured person?

Introduce yourself and ask permission to help if the person is responsive.

What action is indicated for an unresponsive person not breathing normally?

Follow your training: begin CPR and use an AED for an unresponsive person who is not breathing normally.

What should you ask an alert person when no immediate life threat is apparent?

Ask what happened and about symptoms, allergies, medications, and relevant medical conditions.

How should care be prioritized at a trauma scene?

Address danger to rescuers first, then urgent life threats, then other serious injuries, and finally less urgent injuries.

Which signs should you keep reassessing while waiting for help?

Recheck responsiveness, breathing, and bleeding because the person’s condition can worsen.

How should you respond if a trauma scene is unsafe?

Stay at a safe distance, tell emergency dispatchers what you see, and do not enter until the scene is safe or trained responders direct you to do so.

How can a rescuer reduce exposure to blood?

Use available protective equipment, such as gloves, and avoid contact with blood when possible.

What information should you give an emergency dispatcher?

Give the exact location, number of injured people, visible hazards, and what you have observed. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions and stay on the call until told otherwise.

What are the key checks in an initial trauma assessment?

Quickly check whether the person is awake, breathing normally, or experiencing severe bleeding.

What basic first-aid measure can help control life-threatening bleeding?

Apply firm, steady direct pressure while emergency help is being arranged.