Secondary Survey (2022) FAW
Once you have dealt with any life-threatening conditions, you can move on to the Secondary Survey.
This is a way of checking for injuries or illnesses by gathering information and examining the casualty from head to toe.
- If they are conscious, remember to reassure them and talk to them as you do this.
- Your aim is to find out about the casualty's history, signs and symptoms:
- What happened in the moments leading up to the injury or illness and is there any relevant medical history?
- Are there any signs or symptoms that will help you decide what first aid treatment is required?
A checklist of what to cover in a head to toe survey can be viewed HERE
Event History
Try to find out what happened:
- You may be able to ask the casualty directly or
You may need to find out from witnesses at the scene.- Find out as much as you can about the mechanism of injury; for example, if the casualty fell from a height, how far did they fall?
Previous Medical History
This can provide important information about the cause of the first aid incident.
For example:
- Is the casualty wearing a medical alert bracelet?
- Do they have medication with them which may indicate a medical condition, such as epilepsy, diabetes or risk of anaphylaxis?
- If they are on medication, find out when they last took it.
- Check when they last had something to eat or drink.
All this information will provide important clues as to what help they need.
If possible, make a note of your findings, so that you can pass the information on to the emergency services or whoever takes responsibility for the casualty.