What should you confirm before conducting a physical assessment on an injured athlete?

Before conducting a physical assessment on an injured athlete, it is crucial to confirm that the athlete is breathing. This step is vital because if the athlete is not breathing, immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent further complications or loss of consciousness. Ensuring proper breathing is a fundamental aspect of emergency response, as it helps assess the overall stability of the injured person's condition.

Understanding the breathing status provides critical information about the athlete’s health and guides the first aid provider's next actions. If the athlete is not breathing, first aid measures such as performing CPR should be initiated without delay. This priority ensures that life-threatening situations are addressed before proceeding with other assessments or treatments.