Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Your Certification!

The first step in the trauma assessment order is securing ABCs, which stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. This step is critical because the primary concern in any trauma situation is to ensure that the patient's airway is clear, they are breathing adequately, and their circulation is sufficient to maintain life.

In emergency situations, particularly those involving trauma, the patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly. If the airway is compromised or if there are significant breathing or circulatory problems, immediate interventions are necessary. By prioritizing the assessment and management of ABCs, paramedics can address life-threatening issues right away, which can greatly increase the chances of patient survival and recovery.

While head examination, physical exams, and history taking are all important components of a thorough trauma assessment, they come after ensuring that the patient’s ABCs are stable. Focusing first on these vital signs allows for a more systematic approach to managing trauma and ensures that any immediate life threats are recognized and treated without delay.