Student understanding of the equilibrium coexistence of a liquid and its vapor was the subject of an extended investigation. Written assessment questions were administered to undergraduates enrolled in introductory physics and chemistry courses. Responses have been analyzed to document conceptual and reasoning difficulties in sufficient detail to be of practical use to instructors. Even after instruction on the relevant material, many students fail to recognize that for one-component systems in which a liquid and its vapor coexist in equilibrium, the pressure is controlled solely by the temperature. Although most students seem to realize that vaporization and condensation both take place, few are able to construct a coherent, step-by-step explanation for how dynamic phase equilibrium is established. Implications for instruction are discussed.

<p class="Pa2"><strong>Background</strong></p><p class="Pa2">To guide their care paramedics routinely rely upon two assessment and treatment algorithms, known as the primary survey and the secondary survey.  No clear consensus of the concepts (assessments and interventions) that are, or should be, included in these algorithms exist internationally. </p><p class="Pa2"><strong>Methods </strong></p><p class="Pa2">This paper evaluated Australasian paramedic clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), as well as six other international paramedic CPGs (USA, Ireland, UK, South Africa, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates) in order to identify which concepts are currently described in best-practice recommendations for paramedics.  The authors also contributed concepts that they felt were important additions based on their experience as veteran paramedics and paramedic educators.</p><p class="Pa2"><strong>Results </strong></p><p class="Pa2">The resulting amalgamation of concepts identified in each term was then formed into two mnemonics which, together sequentially list approximately 100 specific clinical concepts that paramedics routinely consider in their care of patients. We describe these as the “International Paramedic Primary and Secondary Surveys”.</p><p class="Pa2"><strong>Conclusion </strong></p><p class="Pa2">The primary and secondary surveys presented in this paper represent an evidence-based guide to the best practice in conducting a primary and secondary survey in the paramedic context.  Findings will be of use to paramedics, paramedic students, and other clinicians working in remote or isolated practices.</p>

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