In a medical emergency, what is an important first step when assessing a patient?

When assessing a patient in a medical emergency, evaluating environmental hazards is a critical first step. This is essential for ensuring the safety of both the responder and the patient. If there are dangers present, such as traffic, fire, or unstable structures, they must be addressed first to prevent further harm. Recognizing these hazards allows the responder to approach the scene safely and effectively, enabling them to provide assistance without becoming a victim themselves.

This step sets the stage for an appropriate response to the patient's needs, as it ensures that the environment is secure for administering care. Without this awareness, a responder could inadvertently place themselves and others in danger while trying to assist the patient.