How should a first responder approach the treatment of a patient who presents both life-threatening and non-life-threatening injuries?

When responding to a patient with both life-threatening and non-life-threatening injuries, the priority should always be to address the life-threatening injuries first. This approach aligns with the principles of triage, where responders must assess and prioritize interventions based on the severity of the patient's condition. Life-threatening injuries can pose immediate risks to the patient's survival, such as compromised airway, severe bleeding, or lack of circulation.

By treating these critical issues first, the first responder increases the likelihood of stabilizing the patient and preventing further deterioration of their condition. Once life-threatening issues have been addressed, the responder can then turn their attention to non-life-threatening injuries, which can be managed subsequently without the immediate risk to the patient’s life.

The other choices suggest alternatives that could divert attention away from the most critical factors affecting the patient’s survival, which is why they do not align with best practices for emergency care. Prioritizing treatment in this manner is a core aspect of effective emergency response that could ultimately save lives.