Health History General Survey

Casey is a 17-year-old high school student admitted to the ER with a compound fracture of the left leg obtained falling at the local skateboard park while practicing for a national competition. He has never been hospitalized before. His mother has been notified and is on her way. The EMTs gave him morphine and he reports his pain level as “okay.” What part of the interview and examination can be done prior to his mother’s arrival? As you enter the room for the first time, what should you observe as part of the general survey? As you complete his history, what areas are especially important? What are the important developmental considerations for Casey?