When should a lifeguard perform a secondary assessment?

A lifeguard should perform a secondary assessment after providing initial care and when the victim is stable in a non-life-threatening situation. This approach allows the lifeguard to gather more information about the victim's condition and any potential injuries that may not be immediately visible or apparent.

In scenarios where the victim is not in immediate danger of death or serious injury, the secondary assessment serves to check for less critical issues that still require attention, such as sprains, strains, or other minor medical conditions. This thorough evaluation helps ensure that all injuries are accounted for and treated appropriately, which is essential for the overall care of the victim.

This practice not only aligns with proper medical protocols for assessing victims but also helps lifeguards to provide the best level of care by identifying additional needs that may arise during the evaluation process.