Assess, Alert, and Attend

This is the basic process of recognizing and handling a medical emergency.  The first part of the sequence is Assess. Assessing a scene should take only about 5-15 seconds, although there are a number of important issues that need to be evaluated in this period.  The first thing to determine is whether or not the environment poses a hazard to you as a rescuer.  If a scene is unsafe, do not enter it. This is especially important to remember when dealing with emergencies involving confined spaces and electricity, among others. During this phase you should also attempt to determine the number of victims, the nature of the injuries, and any clues to the cause of the injury.



Once you determine there is an emergency, it is time to Alert the Emergency Medical System. Ask a bystander to activate EMS by calling 911, or if you make the call, remember to speak calmly and include important information such as the location, phone number, and the victim’s condition. If possible, try to use a landline instead of a cell phone. Expect a delay in activating the EMS if a cell phone is the only communication available.

Always hang up last.

Attending to a victim can be anything from stopping bleeding, giving CPR, or simply speaking reassuringly and activating EMS. Don’t wait for someone more qualified to arrive.  If you are there, YOU are the most qualified person available. Your care of an injured person begins as you approach them.  As a first aid caregiver, it is important for you to appear calm and confident in front of a victim, even if you are frightened or confused. Give comfort, reassurance, monitor the victim and explain your actions. Start with a quick, but thorough head-to-toe exam. If the victim is conscious, obtain consent prior to proceeding to Primary Assessment.