What should the EMT assess first when arriving at the scene of a suicide attempt?

When arriving at the scene of a suicide attempt, the foremost priority for an EMT is to assess the safety of the scene. This ensures not only the safety of the EMT but also protects any bystanders, other responders, and the patient themselves. A hazardous environment can present risks such as weapons, unstable structures, or potential chemical hazards which could lead to further injury.

By evaluating the scene for safety first, EMTs can determine if they need to wait for law enforcement or other safety personnel before proceeding with patient care. Assessing safety first allows for a controlled environment in which the EMT can work effectively and provide the needed medical care without added risk to themselves or the patient. After establishing that the scene is safe, EMTs can then proceed to evaluate the patient's vital signs, history, and the presence of family members in a systematic manner without risk to their own safety or that of others.