What does a secondary survey assess in rescue scenarios?

A secondary survey is a critical assessment conducted during rescue scenarios, focusing primarily on evaluating the type and extent of injuries sustained by the individual(s) involved. This assessment typically occurs after initial care has been provided and after the scene has been deemed safe. The purpose of a secondary survey is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the victim's medical condition, which includes checking for additional injuries that may not have been immediately visible or apparent.

By identifying and documenting the specific injuries, rescuers can prioritize treatment and take appropriate measures to stabilize the victim before extraction. This detailed assessment can significantly influence the rescue strategy, as different injuries may require specific interventions or adjustments in how the rescue is executed.

Assessing the team’s equipment readiness, the subject's ability to self-rescue, and the environmental conditions of the confined space are crucial elements within the overall rescue plan but primarily fall under the initial assessment phase or situational awareness, rather than the secondary survey itself.