When assessing a patient, what does forming a general impression involve?

Forming a general impression of a patient is a crucial first step in the assessment process. This involves quickly gathering essential information about the patient’s appearance and behavior, which can provide valuable insights into their condition. Noting the patient’s sex, age, body posture, and distress level helps the responder to gauge the severity of the situation and prioritize care accordingly.

For instance, a patient who appears in significant distress may require immediate attention over someone who seems stable. This initial observation aids in forming a preliminary diagnosis and allows the responder to make informed decisions about the next steps in care. Thus, option C accurately captures what forming a general impression entails.