Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Ensure Exam Success!

The primary focus of the primary survey in trauma assessment is to identify life-threatening conditions. This initial assessment is crucial because it allows the healthcare provider to quickly determine the stability of the patient and address any immediate threats to life. During the primary survey, critical areas such as airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure (the ABCDEs) are systematically evaluated to ensure that any life-threatening injuries or conditions are recognized and promptly managed.

In trauma situations, patients can rapidly deteriorate, and identifying issues such as airway compromise, severe hemorrhage, or respiratory distress is essential to ensure effective and timely intervention. By concentrating on these immediate concerns, the primary survey sets the stage for further stabilization and treatment, which may include securing the airway, initiating CPR, or controlling bleeding.

While gathering patient history, monitoring vital signs over time, and conducting detailed physical examinations are all important aspects of patient care, they are typically reserved for later in the assessment process. After addressing the most urgent needs during the primary survey, the secondary survey can then be conducted, focusing on these additional considerations to provide comprehensive care.