What is your primary responsibility while at the scene of a domestic violence incident?

In a domestic violence incident, the primary responsibility of an EMT is to assess and treat the patient. This is critical because the health and safety of the patient come first, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Immediate medical needs must be addressed, including ensuring the patient is stable, providing necessary first aid, and preparing for potential transport to a medical facility if required.

While it is important for EMTs to document the incident for legal and medical purposes, this action comes after ensuring the patient's well-being. Notification of hospital staff is generally part of the procedure that occurs after assessing the patient and determining the necessary care. Protecting the crime scene is an important aspect of law enforcement and should be managed by police personnel; thus, it does not fall within the EMT's primary responsibilities in the field. The paramount duty is to ensure the patient's medical needs are prioritized above all else.