How should a lightning strike victim be primarily assessed?

When assessing a lightning strike victim, it is essential to treat them primarily as a medical patient. This is because lightning strikes can cause a variety of internal injuries that may not be immediately visible, such as cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory issues due to respiratory arrest, and neurological effects such as altered mental status or loss of consciousness.

Additionally, even though there may be visible burns at the entry and exit points, lightning injuries are often more complicated than just external burns or fractures. The body's response to the electric shock includes potential damage to the heart and nervous system, which necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's medical status.

By prioritizing the assessment as a medical patient, responders can effectively address life-threatening conditions that may not be immediately apparent and provide the necessary interventions to stabilize the patient. Understanding that a lightning strike can lead to a range of medical complications is vital for delivering appropriate and effective care.