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DRAFT — NOT FOR PUBLIC EMERGENCY USE
Draft content aligned with ILCOR/AHA resuscitation guidelines, IFRC/Red Cross first aid guidance, WHO emergency care principles, and NFPA fire safety standards. Requires expert review before publication.
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If someone needs immediate help with vital signs assessment, use emergency mode.
Do this nowMany emergencies get worse when people panic or use the wrong action. Learning vital signs assessment gives you a simple plan to protect yourself and help others while waiting for professional responders.
Follow these in order when you need this skill.
Check the scene for danger before you help. Do not become another casualty. Call for help when needed.
Measures or estimates heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure where equipment and training allow.
Use your eyes and ears. Watch the person and the scene. Take no more than a few seconds for urgent checks.
Based on what you see, call emergency services if the situation is serious. Follow dispatcher instructions.
If you are not trained for the next step, stay with the person, keep them safe, and wait for ambulance or fire crews.
Things that can make the situation worse
Review this skill with a family member. Say the steps out loud and name one time you would call emergency services instead of doing more.
Question 1
What should you do first when using vital signs assessment?
Answer: Make sure the scene is safe. Scene safety comes first. You cannot help if you become injured too.
Question 2
When should you stop and wait for professional help?
Answer: When you are unsure, untrained for the next step, or the situation is beyond basic first aid. Civilians save lives by calling for help and doing simple actions safely. Know your limits.
Practice this skill for these emergency situations.
More skills in Assess the situation.