If a patient is pinned in a vehicle, what action should be taken after gaining access to her?

Performing a primary assessment and providing life-saving care before extrication is crucial because the patient may have life-threatening injuries that need immediate attention, such as compromised airway, severe bleeding, or any signs of shock. When dealing with a patient who is pinned in a vehicle, the primary focus should always be on stabilizing their condition to prevent further harm during the extrication process.

By completing a primary assessment first, the EMT can identify critical issues that require intervention. For instance, if the patient is not breathing properly or is bleeding profusely, immediate care can be rendered to stabilize her condition, thus increasing the chance of survival and minimizing potential complications from moving her.

Moreover, extricating a patient without addressing immediate medical needs runs the risk of exacerbating injuries or delaying necessary interventions. Although other options may seem plausible, they might not prioritize the patient's medical status adequately. Therefore, the best course of action is to focus on the assessment and life-saving care prior to extrication.