What is performed during a secondary survey?

During a secondary survey, a comprehensive head-to-toe assessment is conducted to identify any additional injuries the patient may have sustained. This methodical examination is essential to ensure that all potential injuries are accounted for, especially after the primary survey has addressed immediate life-threatening conditions.

A head-to-toe check includes looking for visible injuries, assessing for tenderness, swelling, or deformities, and evaluating the patient's overall condition. This thorough approach helps emergency responders develop an effective treatment plan and ensures that nothing is overlooked in the assessment of the patient's injuries.

While vital signs, heart rate, and psychological evaluations are also important aspects of patient care, they are typically not the primary focus during a secondary survey. Vital signs monitoring occurs throughout the assessment process, and a separate evaluation of psychological trauma would follow the physical assessment. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the need for a detailed physical examination to ensure comprehensive care.