What sign should an OEC technician look for in a critically injured patient's secondary assessment?

In a critically injured patient, the secondary assessment is crucial for identifying significant injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Bruising and tenderness to the abdomen are important signs to look for during this assessment because they can indicate internal bleeding or organ damage. The presence of bruising suggests that there has been trauma to that area, potentially leading to serious complications such as hemorrhage or perforation of internal organs. Tenderness upon palpation further indicates the likelihood of underlying injury, necessitating immediate evaluation and management.

While pallor of the skin may indicate shock or poor perfusion, and clear respiratory sounds suggest effective lung function, these do not provide specific insight into internal injuries as bruising and tenderness do. A full range of motion is generally a sign of musculoskeletal health rather than a marker of internal trauma. Therefore, bruising and tenderness in the abdomen is a critical finding that warrants prompt attention and possible intervention in a critically injured patient.