Which vital sign would typically be assessed first?

Assessing the patient's level of consciousness first is crucial because it provides immediate insights into their neurological status and overall responsiveness. This assessment allows the responder to gauge if the patient is alert, oriented, or in need of urgent interventions due to a possible change in mental status. A decreased level of consciousness can indicate life-threatening conditions, including stroke, head injury, or shock, therefore prioritizing this assessment helps in establishing the necessity for immediate care or advanced interventions.

In the context of patient assessment protocols, understanding a patient's responsiveness can guide further evaluations and interventions. Once consciousness is assessed, the responder can proceed to evaluate respiratory rate, blood pressure, and temperature to build a complete picture of the patient’s physiological status.