Which statement best describes the primary survey in rescue medicine?

• A. Records every minor symptom in detail
• B. Only assesses injuries to limbs
• C. Identifies life threats and stabilizes the patient
• D. Is performed after the secondary survey

Answer: (C)

The primary survey is a rapid, life-saving assessment aimed at identifying life threats and stabilizing the patient right away. In practice, you quickly check major dangers that can kill or worsen a patient if not addressed immediately—airway with cervical spine protection, breathing, circulation and major bleeding, disability (level of consciousness), and exposure to uncover hidden injuries. By focusing on these critical issues first, you give the patient the best chance of survival before moving on to a more thorough evaluation.

Why the other statements aren’t accurate: recording every minor symptom takes time and belongs to a later, more detailed assessment (the secondary survey). Limiting the assessment to injuries of the limbs ignores other life-threatening problems that can occur anywhere, such as blocked airways or severe bleeding. The primary survey is performed before the secondary survey, not after, because immediate action to save life comes first.