What does "secondary assessment" involve in first aid?

The secondary assessment in first aid is a comprehensive evaluation aimed at identifying other injuries or medical conditions that may not be immediately apparent after the initial assessment. This process typically occurs after the primary assessment, which focuses on identifying and addressing any life-threatening conditions. During the secondary assessment, the responder will systematically check the casualty for additional injuries, ask questions about their medical history, and conduct a thorough physical examination. This helps ensure that all potential health issues are recognized and addressed, leading to more effective care and treatment.

The focus is on a detailed evaluation rather than just a quick check for life-threatening conditions or providing basic first aid, which are different elements of the first aid approach. Immediate transport may be necessary but is not the focus of the secondary assessment itself.