Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test 2026 - Free AEMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

In the primary survey of a patient, the first critical step is assessing the airway. This is essential because, in an emergency situation, ensuring that the airway is clear and open is the top priority. An obstructed airway can lead to hypoxia and ultimately result in severe complications or death.

By prioritizing the airway, medical responders can immediately identify if there are any obstructions, such as foreign bodies or swelling, and intervene to secure the airway if necessary. Once the airway is confirmed to be clear, the next steps in the primary survey can be effectively and safely executed, such as checking for breathing and evaluating circulation. This approach follows the ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) principle of emergency care, emphasizing that without a patent airway, breathing and circulation measures would be ineffective.