What is the primary goal of the secondary assessment in first aid?

The primary goal of the secondary assessment in first aid is to gather more information about the victim. This assessment is crucial in a first aid scenario because it allows responders to identify any non-life-threatening injuries or conditions that may require attention, as well as to gather a comprehensive medical history if possible.

During this assessment, responders take the opportunity to conduct a head-to-toe examination, asking the victim questions about their symptoms and prior medical history. This holistic approach not only aids in forming a clearer picture of the victim’s condition but also assists in determining the necessary treatment and facilitates communication with other medical personnel upon their arrival.

The other choices focus on different aspects of emergency situations. Prioritizing rapid transport might overlook the need for critical assessments, while solely checking for life-threatening conditions limits the scope of the evaluation and potentially misses other important injuries. Assessing the scene for hazards is also essential but pertains more to the safety of the environment rather than the victim's specific needs. Hence, gathering information about the victim is the most comprehensive and critical aim of the secondary assessment.