How often should you reassess a patient after administering first aid?

After administering first aid, it is crucial to reassess the patient every 5-10 minutes or as conditions change. This frequent reassessment allows the first aider to monitor the patient's status closely, ensuring that any changes in their condition—whether improvements or deteriorations—are detected quickly.

For instance, if a patient is experiencing a developing injury or shows signs of shock, timely assessment can lead to immediate interventions that may be critical for their survival or recovery. Regular checks can include monitoring vital signs, consciousness level, and any ongoing symptoms. This practice aligns with the dynamic nature of injuries or illnesses, especially in remote or wilderness settings where conditions can change rapidly.

A longer interval, such as once every 30 minutes or even hourly, might not provide timely information regarding the patient's condition, potentially missing crucial changes that require immediate action. Additionally, waiting until help arrives does not engage the first aider in the ongoing care necessary to stabilize the patient while waiting for professional assistance.