What assessment should be performed first in tactical field care?

The primary survey is crucial as it is designed to quickly identify and address life-threatening conditions in a tactical environment. This assessment follows the MARCH protocol, which stands for Medical, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Hypothermia.

By first conducting the primary survey, you ensure that the most critical threats to life, like airway obstruction, severe bleeding, or compromised breathing, are prioritized and managed swiftly. This step is fundamental because it sets the foundation for the subsequent care that may be needed, including the secondary survey for finding additional injuries. The primary survey is a systematic approach that dictates the order of interventions necessary to stabilize the patient effectively in the stressful and potentially chaotic environment of tactical field care.

In summary, prioritizing the primary survey allows for quick identification and treatment of immediate threats, ensuring better outcomes in field care scenarios.