When conducting an initial assessment for a client with suspected head injury, what is the first step according to the ABCDE trauma assessment?

Rationale: A. While assessing for external signs of trauma is important, it is not the first priority in ABCDE trauma assessment. Visible injuries are secondary to ensuring the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation are stable. Delaying airway management can lead to hypoxia or worsening neurological injury. B. Full exposure to assess for additional injuries is part of the secondary survey in trauma care. It is important for identifying hidden injuries, but it is not performed until life-threatening conditions are addressed. C. Assessing neurological status (Disability in ABCDE) is essential to identify the severity of a head injury, but it comes after airway, breathing, and circulation are stabilized. Immediate attention to airway takes precedence to prevent hypoxia and further brain injury. D. Airway management is the first and most critical step in the ABCDE approach. In a suspected head injury, the airway may be compromised due to altered consciousness, facial trauma, or vomiting. Maintaining cervical spine precautions while securing the airway prevents further spinal cord injury. This step ensures oxygenation and ventilation, which are essential for survival and neurological protection.