Which action is part of the secondary assessment of a conscious patient?

Formulating a differential diagnosis is a vital component of the secondary assessment when evaluating a conscious patient. This process involves collecting more detailed information about the patient's medical history, symptoms, and vital signs, which helps the healthcare provider determine possible conditions that could be affecting the patient. It is essential to consider a range of potential diagnoses based on the presenting signs and symptoms, directing the subsequent steps in patient management.

In contrast, assessing airway is typically part of the primary assessment, which focuses on immediate life-threatening issues to ensure the patient is stable. Performing CPR is an emergency intervention applied during cardiac arrest, not during the assessment of a conscious patient. Administering medications may be necessary depending on the patient's condition but would not be considered part of the secondary assessment. The secondary assessment serves a more diagnostic purpose, shaping the understanding of the patient’s overall health status before any treatment decisions are made.