What should you ask immediately after identifying yourself at the scene of an unknown emergency?

After identifying yourself at the scene of an unknown emergency, asking what happened is a critical first step for several reasons. Understanding the nature of the incident allows you to assess the situation more accurately and determine the best course of action. It provides essential background information that can guide further questioning and decision-making regarding the safety of the scene, the number of potential patients, and the necessary interventions.

Gathering details about what occurred helps establish the context of the emergency. This knowledge is crucial not only for addressing immediate medical needs but also for ensuring that you are aware of any hazards present, such as traffic, fire, or hazards from a crime scene. Additionally, this information can provide insight into the mechanisms of injury, which can be vital in assessing a patient's condition.

While understanding if anyone is injured or who called for help is important, determining what happened first gives you a clearer picture of the situation, which can then inform the next steps in the response and care for those involved.