secondary survey

Last reviewed 10/2022

Once the primary survey has been completed on the patient with major burns, the secondary survey entails a:

• fuller history
• thorough examination

At any time, if the patient deteriorates then the primary survey should be repeated to look for life-threatening injuries.

At the end of the secondary survey, it is important to consider:

• management of the burn wound
• tetanus status
• adequate documentation
• discussion with burns unit as to whether the patient need to be transferred
• communication and support of relatives