North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam 2026 - Free EMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 665

In identifying patient needs, what is the first action an EMT should take?

Assess vitals immediately

Check for stability of the scene

The first action an EMT should take in identifying patient needs is to check for the stability of the scene. This is critical because the safety of both the patient and the responder is paramount. An unstable scene can pose risks such as ongoing hazards (e.g., traffic, fire, toxic substances) that could lead to further injuries or complications. By ensuring the scene is safe, the EMT can then safely proceed to assess the patient without adding risk to themselves or others present.

Once the scene is confirmed as stable, the EMT can effectively perform assessments, take vital signs, document findings, and address the patient's comfort. This initial step lays the groundwork for a thorough and effective emergency response.

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Document all findings

Ensure patient comfort

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