In trauma cases, what is the first priority according to the Kern County Protocols?

In trauma cases, the first priority according to the Kern County Protocols is ensuring airway patency and controlling bleeding. This focus is critical because the immediate survival of a trauma patient often hinges on these two factors.

Maintaining airway patency ensures that the patient can breathe properly and receive adequate oxygen, which is vital for preventing hypoxia and maintaining organ function. Simultaneously, controlling bleeding is crucial to prevent hypovolemic shock, which can quickly become life-threatening. Addressing these two elements significantly increases the chances of a positive outcome for the patient.

Other options, while important in the overall management of a trauma patient, come after ensuring the airway is clear and bleeding is under control. Administering medications, transporting the patient, and performing diagnostic imaging are all steps that must be prioritized after these initial life-saving measures to ensure the patient's condition is stabilized.