What is the first step in the patient assessment process according to Orange County EMS protocols?

The first step in the patient assessment process according to Orange County EMS protocols is the scene safety assessment. Ensuring the safety of the scene is paramount before any patient interaction or assessment can take place. The primary concern for emergency medical responders is to assess whether the environment poses any danger to themselves, bystanders, or the patient. This assessment helps to prevent further injury and ensures that emergency medical services can operate without adding risk to their personnel or the public.

By evaluating the surroundings for potential hazards such as traffic, unstable structures, or hazardous materials, responders can make informed decisions about how to safely proceed with patient care. Only after confirming the scene is safe can responders move on to assessing the patient’s condition, taking vital signs, or reviewing the patient history, which are all critical components of effective emergency medical care.