What is the first step in performing a rapid assessment of an injured person according to CSP protocols?

The first step in performing a rapid assessment of an injured person is the scene survey. This process involves checking the environment for safety before approaching the injured individual. Ensuring that the scene is secure helps prevent further injury to the rescuer and the victim. A proper scene survey entails assessing potential hazards, the mechanism of injury, and the number of injured parties, which allows rescuers to prioritize their actions and allocate resources effectively.

Following the scene survey, the next steps typically involve primary assessment, transportation decisions, and secondary examination, but these come after establishing that the environment is safe for providing care. Therefore, starting with a thorough scene survey is crucial for the overall effectiveness and safety of the response.