Primary Assessment Overview

As you recall, the initial impression is your first quick "from the doorway" observation of the child. During the initial impression you use what you see and hear to gather information before you even touch the child. In contrast, the primary assessment is a hands-on evaluation.

Here you use an ABCDE approach to assess:

A - Airway

B - Breathing

C - Circulation

D - Disability

E - Exposure

The primary assessment will help you identify the type and severity of the child's problem. This assessment includes evaluation of vital signs and oxygen saturation by pulse oximeter. It also includes a rapid blood glucose test if needed.

Once any life-threatening problems are addressed and the primary assessment is completed, an advanced provider should perform the secondary assessment and order diagnostic tests.