Ep 11: First Impressions Matter – Scene Size-Up & Primary Assessment

Ep 11: First Impressions Matter – Scene Size-Up & Primary Assessment

In EMS, your first impression can literally save a life. This week, the crew breaks down the scene size-up and primary assessment—the first steps every EMT takes when arriving at an emergency. From assessing safety and forming that “doorway impression” to managing life threats with the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation), Mike and Max unpack what it means to stay calm, think fast, and see the big picture.

With Jonathan out on contract, the guys navigate class solo—sharing real ride-along stories, lessons from their first volunteer shifts, and what it’s like to start applying classroom knowledge in the field. They also introduce the AVPU scale (alert, verbal, pain, unresponsive) for gauging patient responsiveness, and cover PPE in this week’s Tools of the Trade. ...