Systematic patient assessment
A systematic patient assessment involves a structured approach to identify clinical signs of deterioration so treatment can be commenced.¹
Perform in any clinical setting
You can perform this systematic assessment in any clinical setting to determine the seriousness of a patient condition and to prioritise initial clinical interventions.¹
Begins once surroundings are safe
The assessment begins after the scene or situation has been found safe or made safe and you have gained access to the patient.
A systematic patient assessment involves a structured approach to identify clinical signs of deterioration so treatment can be commenced.¹
Perform in any clinical setting
You can perform this systematic assessment in any clinical setting to determine the seriousness of a patient condition and to prioritise initial clinical interventions.¹
Begins once surroundings are safe
The assessment begins after the scene or situation has been found safe or made safe and you have gained access to the patient.
First gain a general impression
First gain a general impression as you approach the patient. Do they look well or sick? You should base your general impression on two areas:
Patient's appearance
Evidence of breathing
It is important to call for help early, complete an initial assessment and reassess regularly, treat life-threatening problems first before proceeding to the next part of the assessment and assess the effects of any treatment.¹
Systematic approach
After forming a general impression, begin a systematic approach by assessing Airway and level of responsiveness, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure.
Airway
and level of responsiveness
Breathing
Circulation
Disability
Exposure
Following the initial assessment, obtain a complete SAMPLE history: signs and symptoms, allergies, medication, past history, last oral intake and events preceding the incident.
Questions to ask:
- How many times have you been pregnant (gravida)?
- How many live births (parity)?
- Have you had prenatal care? if so, diagnosed with having any complications?
- Do you have any vaginal discharge, including bleeding?
- Do you have any pain? Onset, provocation, quality of pain, region of pain, radiation of pain, severity and time (OPQRST) (8)
Assess vital signs (PR, RR, BP, T and pulse oximetry) readings
Examine abdomen for any abnormalities
- inspect for signs of trauma
- palpate for tenderness, rigidity, guarding, masses or other abnormalities
- auscultate for foetal heart tones (8)
Further reading:
Further information on systematic patient assessment can be found using the links below:
