Dispatch reports an uncertain hazard. What should the EMT do before arrival?

Build a tentative safety and resource plan from the dispatch information, then verify it on arrival because scene conditions can change. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

What is the first decision when the ambulance reaches an emergency scene?

Decide whether the scene is safe enough to enter. If not, stage at a safe location and request the resources that can control the hazard. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

How should an EMT choose PPE for a call?

Match PPE to the known or reasonably anticipated hazards before exposure; upgrade it if the scene reveals more risk. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

When should an EMT request specialized scene resources?

Request them as soon as the known hazard, access problem, or patient condition indicates a need; do not wait for the situation to overwhelm the crew. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

When does scene size-up end?

It does not end at the doorway. Keep reassessing hazards, access, patient count, and resource needs throughout the call. Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.

Whose safety is protected during scene size-up?

Protect yourself and your crew first, then other responders, the patient, bystanders, and the wider scene. Becoming another patient delays care for everyone. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

Police have not secured a reported violent scene. Where should EMS wait?

Stage outside the unsafe area and request police assistance. Enter only after the responsible agency reports the location safe under local policy. Source: Workplace Violence.

A fire-damaged building looks unstable. What is the EMT's priority?

Stay outside the collapse hazard and let trained fire or rescue personnel determine access. Structural failure can occur with little warning. Source: Structure Fires.

Why identify an exit path before approaching a volatile scene?

Keep an open route to safety and avoid being isolated with a potentially violent person. Do not let people or equipment block that exit. Source: Violence: Occupational Hazards in Hospitals.

What patient-count question belongs in every initial scene survey?

Ask how many actual and potential patients there are. Compare that count with available crews and transport units immediately. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

What does mechanism of injury or nature of illness contribute during scene size-up?

It predicts likely hazards, injuries, illness patterns, and resource needs; it guides assessment but never replaces examining the patient. Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.

Blood or body-fluid contact is likely. What minimum barrier is usually indicated?

Wear intact medical gloves, then add gown, eye protection, or face protection when the task could soil clothing or splash mucous membranes. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

Which infection-control baseline applies to every patient?

Use Standard Precautions for every patient, with hand hygiene and exposure-based PPE chosen from the task and anticipated contact. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

Which worker-protection control applies after a sharp is used?

Use safe sharps management and disposal. Source: Bloodborne Pathogens: Worker Protections.

A chemical vapor cloud is moving across the road. Where should EMS stage?

Stay well clear and, when terrain and wind can be judged safely, position uphill and upwind while requesting hazmat and traffic-control resources. Use the current ERG and incident command for exact isolation decisions. Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.

When should an EMT add eye and face protection?

Add it when splashes or sprays to the eyes, nose, or mouth are reasonably anticipated, such as during uncontrolled bleeding or suctioning. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

A patient may have an airborne or droplet-spread infection. What should the EMT do?

Add the transmission-based respiratory protection and patient placement required for the suspected route, following current agency infection-control policy. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

After occupational exposure to a bloodborne pathogen, what worker-protection measure applies?

Post-exposure evaluation and follow-up. Source: Bloodborne Pathogens: Worker Protections.

What visibility protection belongs at a roadway incident?

Wear ANSI 107 performance Class 2 or 3 high-visibility apparel while within the temporary traffic-control zone. The MUTCD alternative is retroreflective turnout gear for emergency responders directly exposed to flame, fire, heat, or hazardous materials. Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition with Revision 1, December 2025.

Dispatch reports a possibly armed person. What is EMS's entry decision?

Do not enter the unsafe location. Stage and request police assistance; enter only when the responsible agency reports the scene safe under local policy. Source: Workplace Violence.

A patient is unconscious inside a tank. Should an untrained EMT enter?

No. Keep others from entering and summon a trained, equipped confined-space rescue team; entry rescue requires specific procedures, tools, and PPE. Source: Working Safely in Confined Spaces.

How should a downed electrical line be treated?

Treat it and anything it touches as energized until the utility confirms it is de-energized and grounded; keep people away and request utility and fire resources. Source: Cleanup Hazards.

Where are the two critical traffic-control locations at a roadway incident?

At the incident scene, where traffic needs clear direction to move safely past responders, and at the end of the traffic queue, where advance warning helps prevent secondary crashes. Monitor the queue and move warning devices as it grows. Source: Responder and Motorist Safety.

Does removing gloves replace hand hygiene?

No. Perform hand hygiene after glove removal and at the other moments required by infection-control policy; gloves can fail or become contaminated during removal. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

Smoke is crossing the planned path to a patient. What should EMS do?

Do not enter the smoke unless assigned, trained, and equipped for the required fire response. Reposition to clean air and request fire-rescue access. Source: Classification of Fires; Respiratory Protection To Extinguish Fires.

Several people become ill inside the same enclosed space. Which common hazard should EMS consider?

Consider carbon monoxide, especially when symptoms began after a fuel-burning device ran or improve outside. Keep responders in fresh air, warn occupants to leave if possible, and request emergency response. Source: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.

What is the core role of a hazmat awareness-level responder?

Recognize a possible hazardous-substance release, protect the area from a safe position, notify the proper authorities, and take no control action beyond the responder's training. Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.

What should an EMT do when a weapon is discovered during patient care?

Move to safety, alert the team, and request police assistance. Do not resume care in the unsafe location until the threat is controlled under local policy. Source: Workplace Violence.

Traffic is still flowing beside a crash scene. What resource should EMS request?

Request the traffic-control resource named by local dispatch or incident command—usually law enforcement or a transportation agency. Fire/rescue can provide initial traffic control until law enforcement or DOT arrives. Source: Traffic Incident Management Stakeholders.

What should happen to reusable equipment contaminated during care?

Keep it from clean supplies and reuse, then clean and disinfect it with the approved product and process before returning it to service. Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.

How should an EMT identify hazardous material at a transportation incident?

Gather placard, container, vehicle, shipping-paper, and witness information from a safe location; do not approach merely to read a label. Relay the details to dispatch and hazmat. Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.

A scene becomes violent after EMS enters. What takes priority?

Leave the unsafe location and request police assistance. Resume care only after the threat is controlled under local policy. Source: Workplace Violence.

An aggressive dog blocks access to the patient. What is the next resource decision?

Keep your distance and do not force entry. Ask the owner to confine the dog or use the locally designated law-enforcement or animal-control resource before entry. Source: Home Healthcare Workers: A Growing Workforce at High Risk for Workplace Violence.

A child is visible in moving floodwater. What may an untrained EMT safely do?

Call trained water-rescue resources and keep untrained people out. Enter or work near floodwater only if trained and assigned, with a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device and a partner. Source: Hurricane and Flood Key Messages for Employers, Workers, and Volunteers, 2025.

What phase of a transportation hazmat incident is the ERG designed to support?

The initial response phase. Use it to identify early protective actions, then follow incident command and substance-specific technical guidance as the response develops. Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.

What positioning supports de-escalation with an agitated patient?

Keep enough distance to react, avoid blocking the person's exit, preserve your own exit, and use calm communication while watching for escalating behavior. Source: Violence: Occupational Hazards in Hospitals.

How should severe weather change scene operations?

Reassess floodwater, downed lines, heat or cold, and safe access. Use task-specific controls and PPE, and deploy only trained and equipped personnel for hazardous work. Source: Hurricane and Flood Key Messages for Employers, Workers, and Volunteers, 2025.

A worker has collapsed in an unprotected trench. What should EMS do?

Stay out of the trench, isolate the edge, and request a trained trench-rescue team. An unprotected trench can collapse without warning. Source: Trenching and Excavation Safety.

Who may enter a hazmat danger area?

Only responders trained, assigned, and protected for the role may enter. An EMT credential alone does not authorize hot-zone work. Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.

When may an EMT enter a violence-related warm zone?

Only as part of the jurisdiction's authorized response, with law-enforcement support and a task-force or command assignment. A warm zone can become unsafe; otherwise remain in cold-zone staging. Source: Civil Unrest Response: Operations.

What comes before detailed individual assessment in primary MCI triage?

Perform the locally adopted global sorting step so responders rapidly organize access to the whole patient population before focused assessment. Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.

A patient is pinned in a vehicle. What determines the resource request during size-up?

The known scene hazards and the patient's condition. Request the resources needed to mitigate all facets of the scene under local procedure. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

A contaminated patient is walking toward the ambulance. What should the crew prevent?

Prevent contamination from entering the clean treatment area or ambulance. Direct the patient to the designated decontamination process while coordinating urgent medical needs with hazmat command and medical direction. Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.

A crashed car rests against a utility pole with wires on it. What should occupants be told?

Tell occupants to stay inside and warn everyone away. Call the utility and emergency services; leave only if fire forces evacuation, using the jump-clear and shuffle-away method. Source: What You Need to Know When the Power Goes Out Unexpectedly.

A patient is visible inside a burning structure. What limits the EMT's action?

Remain outside unless assigned, trained, and equipped for interior structural firefighting with the required protective clothing and breathing apparatus. Request fire rescue and receive the patient in a safe area. Source: Classification of Fires; Respiratory Protection To Extinguish Fires.

What happens after global sorting in primary MCI triage?

Rapidly assess each patient with the jurisdiction's triage method, assign a priority, and move on; detailed secondary assessment comes later. Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.

Which scene clues make carbon monoxide more likely than flu?

More than one person becomes ill, symptoms improve away from the location, illness began after a fuel-burning device ran, or pets are also sick. Source: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.

What scene-size-up duty applies when not every patient may be visible?

Investigate the scene to determine potential patients. Do not end patient-count work merely because the first visible patients have been found. Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.

How does pediatric integration change scene-size-up readiness?

Apply scene-size-up to children while recognizing that they require specialized pediatric knowledge, skills, and equipment. Request age-appropriate resources when needed. Source: Pediatric Resources.

Which interventions belong during initial MCI triage?

Only the rapid lifesaving interventions authorized by the local triage method and responder scope; avoid treatment that traps the triage team with one patient. Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.

No command structure is visible. What should the first arriving person with jurisdictional authority do?

Follow local policy to establish initial command and make that command known. Add only the command functions needed for the incident's current complexity. Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.

NREMT EMT Flashcards: Assessment, Treatment & Operations

Study the current NREMT EMT test plan with original flashcards for scene safety, assessment, treatment, transport, and operations.

Por el autor Open Study Contributor

Sobre este mazo

Prepare for the current NREMT EMT certification examination with 360 original flashcards arranged in a practical learning sequence: scene safety and size-up, primary assessment, secondary assessment, treatment and transport, then operations.

The deck practices these mappings: dispatch cues and patient findings to assessment priorities; findings to the next safe EMT-scope action; ordered processes to the next step; presentations to classifications; anatomy and physiology to assessment or treatment relevance; and original micro-scenarios to transport, destination, communication, and resource decisions. It covers 60 scene cards, 148 primary-assessment cards, 25 secondary-assessment cards, 79 treatment cards, and 48 operations cards.

The deck does not reproduce real or recalled exam questions, answer keys, mark schemes, protected curriculum text, competitor deck text, logos, or trade dress. It excludes local-only algorithms, uncertain or disputed doses, advanced-provider and invasive procedures, psychomotor skill validation, and full mock-exam or scenario practice. Where protocols vary, the cards say so and direct the learner to current state and local guidance and medical direction.

Sources include the public NREMT EMT examination specifications, the National EMS Education Standards amended February 24, 2025, the National EMS Scope of Practice Model, current national clinical and resuscitation guidance, and authoritative public safety, pediatric, transport, and operations references. The source links and batch provenance are preserved in the cards and source registry. The deck was reviewed on 2026-09-01.

Only the original card wording and original cover illustration are offered under CC0 1.0. Linked publications, source titles, third-party trademarks, and factual material remain subject to their own rights; CC0 does not relicense them.

This independent, unofficial deck is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. See the official NREMT EMT examination page.

Tarjetas de este mazo

Tarjeta 1
Pregunta
Dispatch reports an uncertain hazard. What should the EMT do before arrival?
Respuesta
Build a tentative safety and resource plan from the dispatch information, then verify it on arrival because scene conditions can change.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 2
Pregunta
What is the first decision when the ambulance reaches an emergency scene?
Respuesta
Decide whether the scene is safe enough to enter. If not, stage at a safe location and request the resources that can control the hazard.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 3
Pregunta
How should an EMT choose PPE for a call?
Respuesta
Match PPE to the known or reasonably anticipated hazards before exposure; upgrade it if the scene reveals more risk.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 4
Pregunta
When should an EMT request specialized scene resources?
Respuesta
Request them as soon as the known hazard, access problem, or patient condition indicates a need; do not wait for the situation to overwhelm the crew.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 5
Pregunta
When does scene size-up end?
Respuesta
It does not end at the doorway. Keep reassessing hazards, access, patient count, and resource needs throughout the call.

Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.
Tarjeta 6
Pregunta
Whose safety is protected during scene size-up?
Respuesta
Protect yourself and your crew first, then other responders, the patient, bystanders, and the wider scene. Becoming another patient delays care for everyone.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 7
Pregunta
Police have not secured a reported violent scene. Where should EMS wait?
Respuesta
Stage outside the unsafe area and request police assistance. Enter only after the responsible agency reports the location safe under local policy.

Source: Workplace Violence.
Tarjeta 8
Pregunta
A fire-damaged building looks unstable. What is the EMT's priority?
Respuesta
Stay outside the collapse hazard and let trained fire or rescue personnel determine access. Structural failure can occur with little warning.

Source: Structure Fires.
Tarjeta 9
Pregunta
Why identify an exit path before approaching a volatile scene?
Respuesta
Keep an open route to safety and avoid being isolated with a potentially violent person. Do not let people or equipment block that exit.

Source: Violence: Occupational Hazards in Hospitals.
Tarjeta 10
Pregunta
What patient-count question belongs in every initial scene survey?
Respuesta
Ask how many actual and potential patients there are. Compare that count with available crews and transport units immediately.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 11
Pregunta
What does mechanism of injury or nature of illness contribute during scene size-up?
Respuesta
It predicts likely hazards, injuries, illness patterns, and resource needs; it guides assessment but never replaces examining the patient.

Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.
Tarjeta 12
Pregunta
Blood or body-fluid contact is likely. What minimum barrier is usually indicated?
Respuesta
Wear intact medical gloves, then add gown, eye protection, or face protection when the task could soil clothing or splash mucous membranes.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 13
Pregunta
Which infection-control baseline applies to every patient?
Respuesta
Use Standard Precautions for every patient, with hand hygiene and exposure-based PPE chosen from the task and anticipated contact.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 14
Pregunta
Which worker-protection control applies after a sharp is used?
Respuesta
Use safe sharps management and disposal.

Source: Bloodborne Pathogens: Worker Protections.
Tarjeta 15
Pregunta
A chemical vapor cloud is moving across the road. Where should EMS stage?
Respuesta
Stay well clear and, when terrain and wind can be judged safely, position uphill and upwind while requesting hazmat and traffic-control resources. Use the current ERG and incident command for exact isolation decisions.

Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.
Tarjeta 16
Pregunta
When should an EMT add eye and face protection?
Respuesta
Add it when splashes or sprays to the eyes, nose, or mouth are reasonably anticipated, such as during uncontrolled bleeding or suctioning.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 17
Pregunta
A patient may have an airborne or droplet-spread infection. What should the EMT do?
Respuesta
Add the transmission-based respiratory protection and patient placement required for the suspected route, following current agency infection-control policy.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 18
Pregunta
After occupational exposure to a bloodborne pathogen, what worker-protection measure applies?
Respuesta
Post-exposure evaluation and follow-up.

Source: Bloodborne Pathogens: Worker Protections.
Tarjeta 19
Pregunta
What visibility protection belongs at a roadway incident?
Respuesta
Wear ANSI 107 performance Class 2 or 3 high-visibility apparel while within the temporary traffic-control zone. The MUTCD alternative is retroreflective turnout gear for emergency responders directly exposed to flame, fire, heat, or hazardous materials.

Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition with Revision 1, December 2025.
Tarjeta 20
Pregunta
Dispatch reports a possibly armed person. What is EMS's entry decision?
Respuesta
Do not enter the unsafe location. Stage and request police assistance; enter only when the responsible agency reports the scene safe under local policy.

Source: Workplace Violence.
Tarjeta 21
Pregunta
A patient is unconscious inside a tank. Should an untrained EMT enter?
Respuesta
No. Keep others from entering and summon a trained, equipped confined-space rescue team; entry rescue requires specific procedures, tools, and PPE.

Source: Working Safely in Confined Spaces.
Tarjeta 22
Pregunta
How should a downed electrical line be treated?
Respuesta
Treat it and anything it touches as energized until the utility confirms it is de-energized and grounded; keep people away and request utility and fire resources.

Source: Cleanup Hazards.
Tarjeta 23
Pregunta
Where are the two critical traffic-control locations at a roadway incident?
Respuesta
At the incident scene, where traffic needs clear direction to move safely past responders, and at the end of the traffic queue, where advance warning helps prevent secondary crashes. Monitor the queue and move warning devices as it grows.

Source: Responder and Motorist Safety.
Tarjeta 24
Pregunta
Does removing gloves replace hand hygiene?
Respuesta
No. Perform hand hygiene after glove removal and at the other moments required by infection-control policy; gloves can fail or become contaminated during removal.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 25
Pregunta
Smoke is crossing the planned path to a patient. What should EMS do?
Respuesta
Do not enter the smoke unless assigned, trained, and equipped for the required fire response. Reposition to clean air and request fire-rescue access.

Source: Classification of Fires; Respiratory Protection To Extinguish Fires.
Tarjeta 26
Pregunta
Several people become ill inside the same enclosed space. Which common hazard should EMS consider?
Respuesta
Consider carbon monoxide, especially when symptoms began after a fuel-burning device ran or improve outside. Keep responders in fresh air, warn occupants to leave if possible, and request emergency response.

Source: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
Tarjeta 27
Pregunta
What is the core role of a hazmat awareness-level responder?
Respuesta
Recognize a possible hazardous-substance release, protect the area from a safe position, notify the proper authorities, and take no control action beyond the responder's training.

Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.
Tarjeta 28
Pregunta
What should an EMT do when a weapon is discovered during patient care?
Respuesta
Move to safety, alert the team, and request police assistance. Do not resume care in the unsafe location until the threat is controlled under local policy.

Source: Workplace Violence.
Tarjeta 29
Pregunta
Traffic is still flowing beside a crash scene. What resource should EMS request?
Respuesta
Request the traffic-control resource named by local dispatch or incident command—usually law enforcement or a transportation agency. Fire/rescue can provide initial traffic control until law enforcement or DOT arrives.

Source: Traffic Incident Management Stakeholders.
Tarjeta 30
Pregunta
What should happen to reusable equipment contaminated during care?
Respuesta
Keep it from clean supplies and reuse, then clean and disinfect it with the approved product and process before returning it to service.

Source: Standard Precautions for All Patient Care.
Tarjeta 31
Pregunta
How should an EMT identify hazardous material at a transportation incident?
Respuesta
Gather placard, container, vehicle, shipping-paper, and witness information from a safe location; do not approach merely to read a label. Relay the details to dispatch and hazmat.

Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.
Tarjeta 32
Pregunta
A scene becomes violent after EMS enters. What takes priority?
Respuesta
Leave the unsafe location and request police assistance. Resume care only after the threat is controlled under local policy.

Source: Workplace Violence.
Tarjeta 33
Pregunta
An aggressive dog blocks access to the patient. What is the next resource decision?
Respuesta
Keep your distance and do not force entry. Ask the owner to confine the dog or use the locally designated law-enforcement or animal-control resource before entry.

Source: Home Healthcare Workers: A Growing Workforce at High Risk for Workplace Violence.
Tarjeta 34
Pregunta
A child is visible in moving floodwater. What may an untrained EMT safely do?
Respuesta
Call trained water-rescue resources and keep untrained people out. Enter or work near floodwater only if trained and assigned, with a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device and a partner.

Source: Hurricane and Flood Key Messages for Employers, Workers, and Volunteers, 2025.
Tarjeta 35
Pregunta
What phase of a transportation hazmat incident is the ERG designed to support?
Respuesta
The initial response phase. Use it to identify early protective actions, then follow incident command and substance-specific technical guidance as the response develops.

Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.
Tarjeta 36
Pregunta
What positioning supports de-escalation with an agitated patient?
Respuesta
Keep enough distance to react, avoid blocking the person's exit, preserve your own exit, and use calm communication while watching for escalating behavior.

Source: Violence: Occupational Hazards in Hospitals.
Tarjeta 37
Pregunta
How should severe weather change scene operations?
Respuesta
Reassess floodwater, downed lines, heat or cold, and safe access. Use task-specific controls and PPE, and deploy only trained and equipped personnel for hazardous work.

Source: Hurricane and Flood Key Messages for Employers, Workers, and Volunteers, 2025.
Tarjeta 38
Pregunta
A worker has collapsed in an unprotected trench. What should EMS do?
Respuesta
Stay out of the trench, isolate the edge, and request a trained trench-rescue team. An unprotected trench can collapse without warning.

Source: Trenching and Excavation Safety.
Tarjeta 39
Pregunta
Who may enter a hazmat danger area?
Respuesta
Only responders trained, assigned, and protected for the role may enter. An EMT credential alone does not authorize hot-zone work.

Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.
Tarjeta 40
Pregunta
When may an EMT enter a violence-related warm zone?
Respuesta
Only as part of the jurisdiction's authorized response, with law-enforcement support and a task-force or command assignment. A warm zone can become unsafe; otherwise remain in cold-zone staging.

Source: Civil Unrest Response: Operations.
Tarjeta 41
Pregunta
What comes before detailed individual assessment in primary MCI triage?
Respuesta
Perform the locally adopted global sorting step so responders rapidly organize access to the whole patient population before focused assessment.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 42
Pregunta
A patient is pinned in a vehicle. What determines the resource request during size-up?
Respuesta
The known scene hazards and the patient's condition. Request the resources needed to mitigate all facets of the scene under local procedure.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 43
Pregunta
A contaminated patient is walking toward the ambulance. What should the crew prevent?
Respuesta
Prevent contamination from entering the clean treatment area or ambulance. Direct the patient to the designated decontamination process while coordinating urgent medical needs with hazmat command and medical direction.

Source: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response: Preparedness.
Tarjeta 44
Pregunta
A crashed car rests against a utility pole with wires on it. What should occupants be told?
Respuesta
Tell occupants to stay inside and warn everyone away. Call the utility and emergency services; leave only if fire forces evacuation, using the jump-clear and shuffle-away method.

Source: What You Need to Know When the Power Goes Out Unexpectedly.
Tarjeta 45
Pregunta
A patient is visible inside a burning structure. What limits the EMT's action?
Respuesta
Remain outside unless assigned, trained, and equipped for interior structural firefighting with the required protective clothing and breathing apparatus. Request fire rescue and receive the patient in a safe area.

Source: Classification of Fires; Respiratory Protection To Extinguish Fires.
Tarjeta 46
Pregunta
What happens after global sorting in primary MCI triage?
Respuesta
Rapidly assess each patient with the jurisdiction's triage method, assign a priority, and move on; detailed secondary assessment comes later.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 47
Pregunta
Which scene clues make carbon monoxide more likely than flu?
Respuesta
More than one person becomes ill, symptoms improve away from the location, illness began after a fuel-burning device ran, or pets are also sick.

Source: Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
Tarjeta 48
Pregunta
What scene-size-up duty applies when not every patient may be visible?
Respuesta
Investigate the scene to determine potential patients. Do not end patient-count work merely because the first visible patients have been found.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 49
Pregunta
How does pediatric integration change scene-size-up readiness?
Respuesta
Apply scene-size-up to children while recognizing that they require specialized pediatric knowledge, skills, and equipment. Request age-appropriate resources when needed.

Source: Pediatric Resources.
Tarjeta 50
Pregunta
Which interventions belong during initial MCI triage?
Respuesta
Only the rapid lifesaving interventions authorized by the local triage method and responder scope; avoid treatment that traps the triage team with one patient.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 51
Pregunta
No command structure is visible. What should the first arriving person with jurisdictional authority do?
Respuesta
Follow local policy to establish initial command and make that command known. Add only the command functions needed for the incident's current complexity.

Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.
Tarjeta 52
Pregunta
An overturned tanker has an unreadable placard and a leaking cloud. What is the EMT's first report?
Respuesta
Report the exact location, tanker type, visible release, wind or cloud direction if safely observable, and exposed people; request hazmat and keep the crew away. Do not move closer for the ID number.

Source: 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook.
Tarjeta 53
Pregunta
A dramatic crash mechanism is present, but the patient looks well. What should the EMT conclude?
Respuesta
Treat the mechanism as a risk clue, not a diagnosis. Complete the patient assessment and apply current destination and transport protocols to the actual findings.

Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.
Tarjeta 54
Pregunta
What do MCI triage categories communicate?
Respuesta
They communicate relative priority for treatment and movement under current resource conditions. Use the locally adopted category names, colors, and decision rules; MUCC supplies a national interoperability benchmark.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 55
Pregunta
What turns a multiple-patient scene into a mass-casualty response problem?
Respuesta
The patients' needs exceed the immediately available response resources, so ordinary one-patient-at-a-time care must shift to the local MCI plan. The exact trigger is system-defined.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 56
Pregunta
Should an EMT apply one adult MCI triage threshold to every child?
Respuesta
No. Use the jurisdiction's MCI triage method and its age-related pediatric variations; do not substitute adult thresholds when that method specifies pediatric adjustments.

Source: Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage: Addendum to the Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 57
Pregunta
What should guide an early MCI resource request?
Respuesta
Request the resources needed to mitigate the known scene hazards and manage the patient conditions. Refine the request as scene size-up continues.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 58
Pregunta
Is an MCI triage priority permanent?
Respuesta
No. Reassess after movement, treatment, delay, or a change in resources because a patient's condition and the incident's priorities can change.

Source: National Implementation of the Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage.
Tarjeta 59
Pregunta
Why keep the incident's triage tag or label with an MCI patient?
Respuesta
It keeps the triage designation with that patient as treatment and transport proceed. Use the incident's designated labeling and tracking process.

Source: Model Uniform Core Criteria for Mass Casualty Incident Triage: Addendum to the Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 60
Pregunta
A daycare bus crash has more children than the first crews can assess. What is the first operational shift?
Respuesta
Protect responders and patients, investigate the potential patient count, triage the patients, and request resources based on hazards and patient conditions. Apply the local MCI and pediatric-triage system.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 61
Pregunta
What is the purpose of the EMT primary assessment?
Respuesta
Find and manage immediate life threats while deciding how urgent the patient is. Do not wait for a complete diagnosis before treating a threat you can correct. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 62
Pregunta
A life threat appears before the primary assessment sequence is complete. What takes priority?
Respuesta
Treat the life threat immediately, then resume the assessment. The sequence organizes care; it does not justify delaying a lifesaving EMT-scope intervention. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 63
Pregunta
What should the EMT form from the first look at the patient?
Respuesta
From the first look, identify obvious airway, breathing, circulation, or neurologic threats and judge whether the patient appears stable or critical. Use that impression to set the pace of the primary survey. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 64
Pregunta
What does AVPU classify during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Responsiveness: Alert, responds to Verbal stimulus, responds to Painful stimulus, or Unresponsive. A decline from the patient's prior level is a high-priority finding. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 65
Pregunta
A patient opens their eyes only when spoken to. Which AVPU category applies?
Respuesta
Verbal. The patient is not fully alert and needs prompt evaluation for airway, breathing, perfusion, and reversible causes of altered responsiveness. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 66
Pregunta
A patient reacts only to an appropriate painful stimulus. Which AVPU category applies?
Respuesta
Pain. Treat this as markedly altered responsiveness and immediately reassess airway protection, ventilation, and perfusion. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 67
Pregunta
The patient looks critically ill despite a calm complaint. Which signal should set the initial pace?
Respuesta
The critical appearance sets an urgent pace. Start the primary survey and treat airway, breathing, circulation, or neurologic threats as they are found. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 68
Pregunta
No response to voice or an appropriate painful stimulus: which AVPU category?
Respuesta
Unresponsive. Open and assess the airway, assess breathing and pulse, and begin indicated lifesaving care without delaying for history. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 69
Pregunta
How should the EMT identify the chief complaint when the patient can answer?
Respuesta
Ask what prompted the call and listen for the patient's main concern in their own words. Then screen immediately for threats that may be more urgent than the stated complaint. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 70
Pregunta
The patient cannot state a chief complaint. What should guide the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Use the scene, bystander information, general impression, and objective findings while prioritizing immediate threats. Do not delay lifesaving care to force a history. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 71
Pregunta
Why should the EMT reassess after each primary-assessment intervention?
Respuesta
To confirm that the intervention worked and to catch deterioration or a newly apparent threat. If it failed, correct the problem or escalate resources within scope and protocol. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 72
Pregunta
Which three observations make up the Pediatric Assessment Triangle?
Respuesta
Appearance, work of breathing, and circulation to the skin. It is a rapid visual and auditory impression; follow it with hands-on ABC assessment and vital signs. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 73
Pregunta
A child's Pediatric Assessment Triangle is abnormal. What is the next step?
Respuesta
Move directly into a hands-on primary assessment and correct immediate airway, breathing, or circulation threats. The triangle identifies urgency; it does not replace ABC assessment. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 74
Pregunta
A quiet child has poor eye contact and weak interaction but no dramatic complaint. Which primary-assessment finding matters most?
Respuesta
Abnormal appearance. Poor eye contact and weak interaction make the Pediatric Assessment Triangle abnormal, so move promptly to hands-on airway, breathing, and circulation assessment. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 75
Pregunta
After likely carbon-monoxide exposure, a conventional pulse oximeter reads 99%. How should an EMT interpret it?
Respuesta
It does not rule out carbon-monoxide poisoning. A conventional two-wavelength pulse oximeter is inaccurate when carboxyhemoglobin is present, so use the exposure history and clinical findings and obtain CO-specific assessment or definitive evaluation per local protocol. Source: CDC, “Clinical Guidance for Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning”.
Tarjeta 76
Pregunta
When should an EMT request ALS or another specialized resource during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
As soon as findings show a likely need beyond the crew's capability or scope. Requesting help early should occur alongside immediate BLS care and should not delay transport when transport is the priority. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 77
Pregunta
What primary-assessment findings support a rapid transport decision?
Respuesta
An uncontrolled airway, inadequate ventilation, shock, major hemorrhage, markedly altered mental status, or another time-critical threat supports prompt transport while care continues. Destination and intercept choices follow local protocol and medical direction. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 78
Pregunta
Why should an acute illness in an older adult prompt an early shock assessment?
Respuesta
Older adults are specifically listed among patients predisposed to medical shock. Check mental status, pulse quality, skin, capillary refill when appropriate, blood pressure, and trend early rather than waiting for hypotension. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 79
Pregunta
A patient can speak clearly in full sentences. What does that suggest about the airway?
Respuesta
It supports current airway patency and air movement sufficient for speech. Continue assessing breathing, because speech is one airway finding and the patient can deteriorate. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 80
Pregunta
Which history or exam findings should trigger a focused check for airway obstruction?
Respuesta
Choking, stridor, a visible foreign body, or airway swelling. Assess patency and air exchange, open or clear the airway as indicated, and reassess. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 81
Pregunta
How can positioning help when an airway is difficult to open or breathing mechanics are poor?
Respuesta
Elevating the head or padding the shoulders or occiput can improve airway opening and respiratory mechanics and may limit aspiration. Choose the position that fits the presentation and any trauma concern, then reassess. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 82
Pregunta
Why is suctioning a visibly contaminated airway a priority?
Respuesta
Removing blood, vomit, or secretions helps restore patency and limit aspiration. Suction within current training and authorization, reopen or maintain the airway, and reassess breathing. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 83
Pregunta
In a child with suspected croup, what airway problem does stridor represent?
Respuesta
Upper-airway obstruction. Assess whether stridor occurs at rest, along with air entry, work of breathing, color, and mental status; worsening distress or fatigue requires prompt escalation under protocol. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Pediatric Croup, pp. 155–158.
Tarjeta 84
Pregunta
Hoarseness, facial burns, and soot near the mouth: what is the airway priority?
Respuesta
Suspect a developing inhalation airway injury. Support airway and breathing, request advanced-airway capability early, and transport promptly rather than waiting for complete obstruction. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 85
Pregunta
Snoring respirations in an unresponsive patient point to what airway problem?
Respuesta
Partial upper-airway obstruction, often from relaxed soft tissue. Open or reposition the airway and reassess air movement; account for possible trauma when choosing the maneuver. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 86
Pregunta
When is a jaw-thrust the initial basic airway-opening choice?
Respuesta
Use it first when traumatic spinal injury is suspected while maintaining manual stabilization. If it does not open the airway, airway patency takes priority; use an effective opening maneuver and follow local protocol. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 87
Pregunta
What is the purpose of manual inline stabilization while the airway is assessed after trauma?
Respuesta
Limit unnecessary cervical-spine movement while the EMT evaluates and manages airway and breathing. It is a motion-restriction aid, not proof of injury and not a reason to accept an obstructed airway. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 88
Pregunta
What do gurgling respirations and visible fluid in the mouth suggest?
Respuesta
Blood, vomit, or secretions are contaminating the upper airway and may obstruct airflow or be aspirated. Treat this as an immediate airway threat and reassess patency continuously. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 89
Pregunta
What must an EMT assess before selecting a basic airway adjunct?
Respuesta
Assess responsiveness, gag reflex and tolerance, airway anatomy or trauma, and whether manual opening alone maintains patency. Choose only an adjunct that fits those findings and local authorization, then reassess after placement. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 90
Pregunta
When may a nasopharyngeal airway be useful?
Respuesta
It may help a patient who needs a basic airway adjunct but retains a gag reflex or cannot tolerate an oral airway. Screen for contraindications and use it only when authorized by state and local protocol. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 91
Pregunta
Why must the EMT reassess after placing a basic airway adjunct?
Respuesta
An adjunct can be poorly sized, displaced, not tolerated, or insufficient. Confirm patency, chest movement, air entry, and the patient's response; reposition or remove it if indicated. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 92
Pregunta
Which assessment pattern makes an EMT classify an unresponsive adult as being in cardiac arrest?
Respuesta
Absent or abnormal breathing—only gasping—plus no definite pulse within 10 seconds. The classification comes from the combined breathing-and-pulse assessment, not from unresponsiveness alone. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Algorithm for Healthcare Professionals.
Tarjeta 93
Pregunta
During rescue breathing for an adult with a definite pulse, when should the EMT recheck the pulse?
Respuesta
About every 2 minutes, and sooner if the patient's condition changes. If the pulse is lost, move to the cardiac-arrest CPR and AED pathway. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Algorithm for Healthcare Professionals.
Tarjeta 94
Pregunta
Why are occasional gasps not normal breathing in an unresponsive adult?
Respuesta
Agonal gasps can occur during cardiac arrest and do not provide effective ventilation. Check for a definite pulse within 10 seconds and start CPR if no pulse is definitely felt. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 95
Pregunta
What defines severe foreign-body airway obstruction in a responsive adult?
Respuesta
The patient cannot move enough air to speak, cough effectively, or breathe normally and may show worsening color or responsiveness. Begin the current severe-obstruction sequence rather than waiting for complete collapse. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines — Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction.
Tarjeta 96
Pregunta
A choking adult can speak and cough forcefully. How should the obstruction be classified?
Respuesta
Classify it as mild foreign-body airway obstruction. Encourage continued coughing and watch continuously for a weaker cough, loss of speech or breathing, worsening color, or reduced responsiveness; begin the severe-obstruction response immediately if those appear. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines — Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction.
Tarjeta 97
Pregunta
Does late pregnancy change how an EMT classifies foreign-body airway obstruction severity?
Respuesta
No. Classify severity from airflow—whether the patient can cough forcefully, speak, and breathe. Pregnancy changes maneuver selection if the obstruction is severe and abdominal thrusts cannot be used; it does not turn an effective cough into severe obstruction. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction Algorithm.
Tarjeta 98
Pregunta
An adult collapses while eating after suddenly losing the ability to speak or cough. What airway cause should the EMT suspect?
Respuesta
Suspect foreign-body airway obstruction from the abrupt choking history and loss of effective speech, cough, and air movement. Start the unresponsive BLS assessment and resuscitation sequence immediately; do not delay CPR while trying to prove the cause or locate an unseen object. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines — Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction.
Tarjeta 99
Pregunta
Which findings mark severe foreign-body airway obstruction in a responsive infant?
Respuesta
An ineffective or absent cough or cry, little or no air movement, cyanosis, or declining responsiveness indicates severe obstruction. A strong cough or cry with effective air movement indicates mild obstruction; monitor closely for deterioration. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Basic Life Support Algorithms.
Tarjeta 100
Pregunta
What change shows that a child's mild foreign-body airway obstruction is becoming severe?
Respuesta
The cough becomes weak or absent, speech or crying and effective breathing are lost, color worsens, or responsiveness decreases. Begin the current severe-obstruction response immediately when that change appears; do not wait for complete unresponsiveness. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Basic Life Support Algorithms.
Tarjeta 101
Pregunta
An infant or child becomes unresponsive from severe foreign-body airway obstruction. Should the EMT pause for a pulse check before compressions?
Respuesta
No. The pediatric FBAO algorithm treats loss of responsiveness as the transition directly to CPR beginning with compressions; it does not insert a pulse check before compressions. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines — Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction.
Tarjeta 102
Pregunta
Why may an infant need padding under the shoulders for airway positioning?
Respuesta
The relatively large occiput can flex the neck when the infant lies flat. A small shoulder roll can help place the head in a neutral position without overextending the neck. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 103
Pregunta
Why can modest airway swelling become critical faster in a young child?
Respuesta
A young child has a smaller airway, so swelling can produce clinically important narrowing quickly. Worsening stridor, work of breathing, air entry, or appearance makes the problem time-critical. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 104
Pregunta
How does a relatively large tongue affect a young child's airway assessment?
Respuesta
It makes soft-tissue obstruction more likely when muscle tone falls. Use neutral positioning, open the airway, and select a correctly sized basic adjunct when indicated. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 105
Pregunta
Why can severe facial trauma cause progressive airway loss even before apnea develops?
Respuesta
Blood, swelling, displaced tissue, or loose teeth can progressively narrow the airway and make a mask seal or ventilation difficult. Trend patency, air entry, bleeding, and mental status while preparing the needed airway resources. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 106
Pregunta
After an allergen exposure, which findings suggest that the upper airway is becoming involved?
Respuesta
Lip or facial swelling and a sensation that the throat is closing. Treat those as part of a possible systemic allergic reaction and assess voice, air movement, breathing, and perfusion immediately. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Anaphylaxis.
Tarjeta 107
Pregunta
In a child, can stridor and wheezing always be assigned to only one airway region?
Respuesta
No. Stridor directs attention to the upper airway and wheezing to the lower airway, but conditions such as anaphylaxis or bronchiolitis can affect both regions. Assess the whole presentation before choosing protocol-authorized care. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 108
Pregunta
Ventilation versus oxygenation: what is the difference?
Respuesta
Ventilation is movement of air into and out of the lungs; oxygenation is delivery of oxygen into the blood. Assess both, because supplemental oxygen does not correct inadequate air movement. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 109
Pregunta
Why must ventilation, oxygenation, and perfusion be assessed together?
Respuesta
Air movement alone does not establish adequate respiratory support. Assess ventilation by rate, pattern, effort, and air exchange; assess oxygenation with clinical findings and pulse oximetry; and assess whether circulation can deliver oxygenated blood. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 110
Pregunta
Which three features determine whether breathing is adequate?
Respuesta
Rate, depth, and effort—interpreted with chest rise, air entry, skin signs, mental status, and age. A number alone cannot establish adequate breathing. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 111
Pregunta
Which findings make breathing inadequate even if a respiratory rate is present?
Respuesta
Poor chest rise, shallow or irregular breaths, little air movement, marked effort or fatigue, worsening mental status, or poor color can show inadequate breathing. Support ventilation promptly when the patient cannot maintain it. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 112
Pregunta
An unresponsive adult has a definite pulse but no normal breathing. Which arrest state does the assessment indicate?
Respuesta
Respiratory arrest, not cardiac arrest. The definite pulse separates the two pathways; continue frequent reassessment because the pulse can be lost. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Algorithm for Healthcare Professionals.
Tarjeta 113
Pregunta
What separates respiratory failure from respiratory distress during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
In respiratory failure, the patient can no longer maintain effective ventilation and oxygenation: air movement or chest rise becomes inadequate, mental status or color worsens, or fatigue and irregular breathing appear. Respiratory distress can still have increased effort with effective ventilation. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 114
Pregunta
What does falling mental status add to the interpretation of slow, shallow breathing?
Respuesta
It indicates worsening respiratory failure and increasing risk that the patient cannot protect the airway. Classify breathing from the whole pattern rather than the respiratory rate alone. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 115
Pregunta
Bag-mask breaths produce no visible chest rise. Which correctable problems should the EMT reassess first?
Respuesta
Recheck airway position and patency, mask seal, bag-and-valve function, and whether an obstruction or leak is preventing air entry. Correct the cause rather than simply squeezing the bag harder. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 116
Pregunta
Why can excessive positive-pressure ventilation worsen circulation?
Respuesta
Too much pressure or rate raises intrathoracic pressure, which can reduce venous return and cardiac output. Ventilate only enough for visible chest rise at the recommended rate. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186.
Tarjeta 117
Pregunta
How should pulse oximetry be used in the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Use pulse oximetry as an adjunct to respiratory rate, pattern, effort, air exchange, mental status, and skin findings—not as a substitute for them. Confirm that the reading is plausible and follow state and local authorization. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Airway Management, pp. 178–186; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 118
Pregunta
How should cyanosis be used in a respiratory-distress assessment?
Respuesta
Treat it as one sign within the full pattern. Record skin color together with air entry, breath sounds, rate and effort, oxygen saturation, and mental status, then reassess after care. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 119
Pregunta
Retractions or accessory-muscle use indicate what breathing classification?
Respuesta
Increased work of breathing and respiratory distress. Assess air movement and fatigue immediately because effort can fall as the patient progresses toward respiratory failure. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 120
Pregunta
Severe dyspnea with barely audible breath sounds: reassuring or ominous?
Respuesta
Ominous. Very little air movement can mean severe obstruction or fatigue; support ventilation as needed, give protocol-authorized care, and arrange rapid transport with advanced resources. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 121
Pregunta
New unequal chest rise or breath sounds after trauma: what does it change?
Respuesta
It raises concern for a serious unilateral chest injury and increases transport and advanced-resource urgency. Support oxygenation and ventilation while looking for worsening perfusion. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 122
Pregunta
Trauma patient with one-sided absent breath sounds, severe distress, and poor perfusion: what priority?
Respuesta
Treat the combination as an immediate life threat: support ventilation and oxygenation, request higher-level help, and transport rapidly. Needle decompression is not in the national EMT minimum competencies and requires the applicable higher-level state and local authorization. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 123
Pregunta
Open chest wound in a spontaneously breathing patient: what must the EMT watch after applying the protocol-approved dressing?
Respuesta
Watch continuously for worsening breathing. If symptoms worsen after covering the wound, manage the dressing according to current local protocol while supporting breathing and transporting rapidly. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Open Chest Wounds.
Tarjeta 124
Pregunta
Paradoxical chest-wall movement with inadequate breathing: what comes first?
Respuesta
Support ventilation and oxygenation and transport rapidly. Paradoxical movement with inadequate breathing is a life threat; continue reassessment and use the locally authorized trauma approach. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 125
Pregunta
In the medical shock framework, which shock category includes tension pneumothorax?
Respuesta
Obstructive shock. The NASEMSO model lists tension pneumothorax as a potential obstructive cause; use the trauma pathway instead when acute injury is suspected. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 126
Pregunta
A wheezing patient becomes quiet, exhausted, and difficult to arouse. What does the quieter chest mean?
Respuesta
Likely worsening respiratory failure, not improvement. Support ventilation, give protocol-authorized treatment, request advanced help, and transport rapidly. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 127
Pregunta
Wheezing most directly suggests narrowing in which part of the airway?
Respuesta
The lower airways. Judge severity by air movement, effort, speech, mental status, and fatigue; loud wheezing alone does not measure severity. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 128
Pregunta
Crackles with dyspnea change which part of the respiratory assessment?
Respuesta
They are abnormal breath sounds that require assessment of overall air entry, oxygenation, work of breathing, mental status, and perfusion. Treat the patient’s actual respiratory compromise rather than diagnosing from the sound alone. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 129
Pregunta
Intercostal or subcostal retractions in a child mean what?
Respuesta
The child is using extra effort to breathe. Assess air entry, respiratory rate, color, appearance, and fatigue at once; escalating retractions can precede failure. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 130
Pregunta
Nasal flaring in an infant or young child indicates what?
Respuesta
Increased work of breathing. It belongs with the whole pediatric assessment—appearance, air entry, retractions, rate, color, and fatigue—not as an isolated diagnosis. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 131
Pregunta
Grunting in a sick infant signals what breathing concern?
Respuesta
Significant respiratory distress. Treat grunting as an urgent warning and assess air entry, work of breathing, color, appearance, and fatigue for progression toward failure. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 132
Pregunta
Head bobbing with each breath in an infant: what does it imply?
Respuesta
Marked accessory-muscle use and serious respiratory distress. Prepare to support ventilation if chest rise, air entry, appearance, or responsiveness worsens. Source: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education.
Tarjeta 133
Pregunta
A child with suspected croup becomes drowsy as breath sounds and stridor decrease. Improvement or failure?
Respuesta
Impending respiratory failure. In suspected croup, fatigue or another mental-status change together with decreasing breath sounds and decreasing stridor is ominous; support ventilation as needed and escalate transport and resources immediately. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Pediatric Croup, pp. 155–158.
Tarjeta 134
Pregunta
Child with bradycardia, poor perfusion, and ineffective breathing: what comes first at EMT level?
Respuesta
Open the airway and provide effective ventilation with oxygen while monitoring the pulse and arranging advanced care. Pediatric bradycardia with compromise is often driven by hypoxia, so correct oxygenation and ventilation promptly. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Bradycardia With a Pulse Algorithm.
Tarjeta 135
Pregunta
Which pulse sites are used for an infant versus a child during pediatric BLS assessment?
Respuesta
Use the brachial pulse for an infant and the carotid or femoral pulse for a child. Check while assessing breathing and follow the current pediatric BLS decision path if no definite pulse is present. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 136
Pregunta
Which combined findings make an EMT classify an infant or child as being in cardiac arrest?
Respuesta
Unresponsiveness, absent or abnormal breathing—including gasping—and no definite pulse within 10 seconds. These findings establish pediatric cardiac-arrest recognition; do not extend an uncertain pulse check. Source: AHA/AAP, 2025 Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 137
Pregunta
Why should pediatric respiratory rate be interpreted by age and clinical condition?
Respuesta
Normal rates change with age, and fever, fear, pain, or illness can change the number. Classify breathing with depth, effort, air entry, appearance, and trend rather than a single cutoff. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 138
Pregunta
What bag-mask finding should prompt an EMT to switch from one-rescuer to two-rescuer technique when trained help is available?
Respuesta
An inadequate mask seal or ineffective chest rise despite airway repositioning. A second rescuer can separate seal and airway control from bag compression; reassess chest rise after the change. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support — Bag-Mask Ventilation.
Tarjeta 139
Pregunta
Which anatomy distinction matters when assessing a patient who breathes through a neck stoma?
Respuesta
A total laryngectomy permanently separates the lungs from the mouth and nose, while a tracheostomy may retain an upper-airway connection. Use the patient's history, device information, and clinical response to guide assessment under local protocol. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Tracheostomy Management, pp. 203–207; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 140
Pregunta
Should every breathing patient automatically receive maximum-flow oxygen?
Respuesta
No. Give oxygen for suspected hypoxemia or other protocol-defined indications and titrate to the patient's condition and current local guideline. Do not let oxygen delay ventilation when breathing is inadequate. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 141
Pregunta
Which three components are required for adequate perfusion?
Respuesta
Adequate circulating volume, effective cardiac output, and an unobstructed vascular system with appropriate tone are all needed. Failure through volume loss, pump failure, abnormal vessel tone, or mechanical obstruction can produce shock. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 142
Pregunta
What should the EMT describe when assessing a pulse during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Rate, rhythm, and quality, along with the site used and the patient's other perfusion findings. A pulse is one part of the circulation picture, not a complete shock assessment. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 143
Pregunta
A central pulse is present but peripheral pulses are weak or absent. What does that suggest?
Respuesta
Reduced peripheral perfusion. Treat it as part of a shock pattern and check mental status, skin, capillary refill when appropriate, blood pressure, bleeding, and trend. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 144
Pregunta
Which skin findings help the EMT judge perfusion?
Respuesta
Color, temperature, moisture, and changes from the patient's baseline. Interpret them with pulse quality, mental status, bleeding, and blood pressure rather than in isolation. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 145
Pregunta
How should capillary refill be used in a perfusion assessment?
Respuesta
Use it as one perfusion finding, especially in children. Pair it with mental status, pulse quality, skin findings, blood pressure, and trend; capillary refill alone does not determine whether shock is present. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 146
Pregunta
Can a patient be in shock with a normal blood pressure?
Respuesta
Yes. After serious trauma, compensated shock may not produce hypotension until severe blood loss has occurred. Trend mental status, breathing, pulse quality, skin, capillary refill, and blood pressure while controlling hemorrhage and transporting rapidly. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 147
Pregunta
What defines compensated shock?
Respuesta
Perfusion is impaired while compensatory responses still preserve blood pressure. Treat the cause and transport before hypotension and worsening organ perfusion signal decompensation. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 148
Pregunta
What does hypotension plus worsening mental status suggest in a patient with shock signs?
Respuesta
Decompensated shock: compensation is failing and vital-organ perfusion is worsening. Prioritize immediate cause-directed BLS care, rapid transport, and advanced resources. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 149
Pregunta
What are the four broad physiologic classes of shock?
Respuesta
Hypovolemic, distributive, cardiogenic, and obstructive. The class points to the failed component—volume, vessel tone, pump, or blocked circulation—and helps choose the next safe action. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 150
Pregunta
Severe nontraumatic gastrointestinal bleeding reduces perfusion through which shock mechanism?
Respuesta
Hypovolemic shock. Blood loss reduces circulating volume; look for the full poor-perfusion pattern, including mental-status change, abnormal breathing, weak pulses, capillary-refill change, and cool or mottled skin. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 151
Pregunta
Loss of vascular tone causes which broad shock class?
Respuesta
Distributive shock. Loss of vascular tone produces inadequate perfusion; current EMS guidance includes septic, anaphylactic, and neurogenic causes. Support ABCs and follow cause-specific protocol. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 152
Pregunta
Pump failure causes which broad shock class?
Respuesta
Cardiogenic shock. Pump failure can combine poor perfusion with findings such as dyspnea, chest discomfort, or abnormal lung sounds. Support ABCs and transport promptly. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 153
Pregunta
A mechanical block to blood flow causes which broad shock class?
Respuesta
Obstructive shock. A mechanical obstruction to circulation—such as tension pneumothorax—can cause poor perfusion despite circulating blood volume. Recognize the pattern and escalate rapidly. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 154
Pregunta
Can heart rate alone classify shock in a child?
Respuesta
No. Interpret heart rate by age and with mental status, pulse quality, skin, capillary refill, blood pressure, and clinical context. Current model guidance warns that tachycardia can be a late sign in children. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 155
Pregunta
What does hypotension usually mean in a child with other shock signs?
Respuesta
Late, decompensated shock until proven otherwise. Begin immediate EMT-scope treatment, transport rapidly, and request advanced help; do not wait for another pressure reading to act. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 156
Pregunta
In most adults, what is usually the first vital-sign clue to compensated medical shock?
Respuesta
Tachycardia. It may persist for hours during compensation; hypotension marks uncompensated shock, so interpret the rate with the rest of the perfusion assessment. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 157
Pregunta
Which findings make external bleeding life-threatening during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Blood pooling on the ground, rapid flow or spurting, bleeding that continues despite direct pressure, or systemic symptoms such as drowsiness, dizziness, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Severe External Bleeding.
Tarjeta 158
Pregunta
Why is a commercial tourniquet preferred over an improvised one for life-threatening extremity bleeding?
Respuesta
Commercial devices are more reliable at producing arterial compression and eliminating distal flow. Improvised devices may be less effective and can cause more tissue injury, so use the protocol-approved commercial device when available. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Life-Threatening Extremity Bleeding.
Tarjeta 159
Pregunta
After direct pressure controls severe external bleeding, what is the role of a pressure dressing?
Respuesta
It may maintain bleeding cessation. A pressure dressing does not replace initial direct manual pressure or the need to reassess for renewed bleeding. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Severe External Bleeding.
Tarjeta 160
Pregunta
Should an EMT rely on a proximal pressure point to control life-threatening limb bleeding?
Respuesta
No. Evidence for brachial or femoral pressure-point compression is uncertain, and the effect can be difficult to sustain. Use the protocol-approved direct-pressure and tourniquet pathway instead. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Severe External Bleeding.
Tarjeta 161
Pregunta
Why should major external bleeding be controlled before completing a head-to-toe exam?
Respuesta
Life-threatening blood loss can kill within minutes and is immediately correctable. Control it when found, then continue the primary assessment and expose only as needed to find other threats. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — External Bleeding Control.
Tarjeta 162
Pregunta
Shock signs after blunt trauma with little visible blood: what should the EMT suspect?
Respuesta
Concealed internal bleeding until proven otherwise. Support ABCs, prevent heat loss, minimize scene delay, and transport rapidly under the trauma system protocol. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 163
Pregunta
Which regions should be checked for concealed traumatic injury when shock signs are present?
Respuesta
Rapidly assess the chest, abdomen, pelvis, back, and extremities while controlling external bleeding and preserving warmth. Shock with the right mechanism warrants rapid transport even when little blood is visible. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 164
Pregunta
Why can a pregnant patient lose significant blood before blood pressure falls?
Respuesta
Pregnancy increases circulating volume, so shock recognition and a blood-pressure fall may be delayed despite significant bleeding. Give weight to mechanism, pulse, skin, mental status, pain, and trend; transport urgently when bleeding is suspected. Source: NCBI Bookshelf, Pregnancy Trauma — Hematologic Changes.
Tarjeta 165
Pregunta
After facial trauma, which medication history belongs in the assessment and handoff?
Respuesta
Ask specifically about anticoagulant and antiplatelet use, document it, and report it with the injury findings. Continue airway, bleeding, mental-status, and ventilation reassessment during transport. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Facial/Dental Trauma, pp. 230–232.
Tarjeta 166
Pregunta
What do cool, pale, or clammy skin findings suggest in a patient with possible shock?
Respuesta
They support poor peripheral perfusion when they fit the rest of the presentation. Interpret them with mental status, pulse quality, capillary refill when appropriate, blood pressure, and trend. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 167
Pregunta
What does a rapid, weak pulse add to a shock assessment?
Respuesta
It supports impaired perfusion when it appears with other findings. Look for the cause and combine pulse quality with mental status, skin, capillary refill when appropriate, blood pressure, and trend. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 168
Pregunta
New confusion and weak pulses develop during a large nontraumatic gastrointestinal bleed. What is the priority?
Respuesta
Treat worsening hypovolemic shock as the immediate concern. Support ABCs, trend perfusion, provide advanced hospital notification, and prioritize transport while requesting higher-level help under local protocol. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110; NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 169
Pregunta
Can pulse location alone complete the perfusion assessment?
Respuesta
No. Assess measured blood pressure when feasible together with mental status, pulse quality, skin, capillary refill when appropriate, bleeding, and trend—without delaying urgent care. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 170
Pregunta
Why should raised legs not be a universal position for every patient with shock signs?
Respuesta
Any circulatory benefit may be temporary, and trauma, breathing difficulty, pain, or worsening symptoms can make leg elevation inappropriate. Consider it only for selected nontraumatic shock under current protocol, and return the patient supine if symptoms worsen. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Position for Shock.
Tarjeta 171
Pregunta
Why is preventing heat loss part of shock care?
Respuesta
Cold stress worsens physiologic strain and hypothermia is associated with worse outcomes in ill or injured patients. Insulate the patient from the environment and ground without delaying definitive care. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — General Approach.
Tarjeta 172
Pregunta
A patient with suspected hypoglycemia is not fully awake or cannot swallow. Is oral glucose appropriate?
Respuesta
No. Oral glucose can cause choking or aspiration when the patient is not awake or cannot swallow. Support the ABCs, request appropriate resources, and follow local protocol for other care. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — First Aid for Hypoglycemia.
Tarjeta 173
Pregunta
Uncontrolled internal bleeding is suspected. What is the definitive EMT priority?
Respuesta
Rapid transport to appropriate definitive care while supporting airway, breathing, circulation, and temperature. Scene interventions cannot stop most internal hemorrhage, so avoid avoidable delay. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 174
Pregunta
Shock is present and the cause may require care beyond EMT scope. What resource decision belongs in the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Request ALS or other appropriate support early while continuing BLS care and transport planning. Follow local intercept rules; do not keep a critical patient on scene solely to wait for ALS. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 175
Pregunta
What must be checked after a tourniquet or packed wound is applied?
Respuesta
Confirm that life-threatening bleeding has stopped, secure the intervention, and keep checking for renewed bleeding and shock. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — External Bleeding Control.
Tarjeta 176
Pregunta
Which adult cardiac-arrest rhythms can a defibrillator shock?
Respuesta
Ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia. The AED analyzes the rhythm and advises a shock; asystole and pulseless electrical activity are not shockable. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines — Defibrillation.
Tarjeta 177
Pregunta
What is the purpose of the disability step in a rapid primary assessment?
Respuesta
Identify an immediate neurologic or metabolic threat through responsiveness, mental status, pupils, movement, and focused screening without delaying ABC care. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 178
Pregunta
Should a detailed Glasgow Coma Scale score delay airway or ventilation care?
Respuesta
No. Correct immediate airway, breathing, and circulation threats first. Obtain and trend a Glasgow Coma Scale score when it will not delay lifesaving care or urgent transport. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 179
Pregunta
After a head injury, when should the EMT recheck the pupils?
Respuesta
Establish pupil size and reaction to light as a baseline, then reassess the pupils if mentation decreases. Trend that finding with the neurologic status and other trauma findings. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Head Injury, pp. 233–237.
Tarjeta 180
Pregunta
Sudden facial droop, one-sided arm weakness, or abnormal speech: what primary-assessment priority?
Respuesta
Suspect acute stroke, check glucose without delaying care, and activate the local stroke pathway. For witnessed symptoms record onset; if unwitnessed, record discovery time and last known well separately while transporting promptly. Source: AHA/ASA, 2026 Guideline for the Early Management of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke.
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Tarjeta 181
Pregunta
For suspected stroke, how do witnessed onset, discovery time, and last known well differ?
Respuesta
Witnessed onset is when symptoms were seen to begin; discovery time is when the deficits were first found; last known well is the last time the patient was confirmed at baseline without the current symptoms. Record the relevant times without delaying transport. Source: AHA/ASA, 2026 Guideline for the Early Management of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke.
Tarjeta 182
Pregunta
Can an adult FAST screen by itself rule out stroke in a child?
Respuesta
No. Adult stroke scales are not validated to capture the broad pediatric presentation. Sudden focal deficits, altered mental status, severe headache, vomiting with neurologic signs, or seizure can still require urgent pediatric stroke evaluation. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Recognition of Stroke in Children.
Tarjeta 183
Pregunta
A patient is actively seizing. What comes first in the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Protect the patient from immediate injury, maintain airway access, and assess breathing and perfusion. Do not place objects in the mouth or restrain convulsive movement; add protocol-authorized care. Source: CDC, First Aid for Seizures (May 15, 2024).
Tarjeta 184
Pregunta
The convulsion has stopped, but the patient remains unresponsive. What should the EMT reassess first?
Respuesta
Reassess airway patency, breathing adequacy, pulse, and perfusion first. Then check glucose when authorized, look for injury or another cause, and trend mental status rather than assuming every persistent deficit is routine recovery. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Seizures, pp. 101–104.
Tarjeta 185
Pregunta
Altered mental status with no immediate ABC threat: which rapid reversible cause can an EMT directly screen for?
Respuesta
Check blood glucose when monitoring is authorized and available. Continue assessing other causes of altered mental status, and treat according to airway protection and current state and local protocol. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 186
Pregunta
Suspected opioid exposure is present. Which finding makes the primary problem respiratory arrest rather than uncomplicated intoxication?
Respuesta
Absent or ineffective breathing while a definite pulse remains. Use the breathing-and-pulse assessment—not the suspected drug history alone—to choose the BLS pathway. Source: AHA, 2025 Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 187
Pregunta
Why is “just intoxicated” unsafe as a primary-assessment conclusion?
Respuesta
Alcohol or drug exposure does not exclude hypoxia, hypoglycemia, head injury, stroke, shock, infection, or another emergency. Assess airway, breathing, perfusion, glucose when authorized, trauma, and neurologic status before assigning the cause. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 188
Pregunta
Agitation or bizarre behavior appears suddenly. What primary-assessment assumption is safest?
Respuesta
Assume a medical, traumatic, toxicologic, environmental, or behavioral emergency may be present. Maintain safety while assessing airway, breathing, perfusion, glucose when authorized, temperature, and injury. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 189
Pregunta
In a preverbal child, what can reveal altered mental status before an AVPU label is obvious?
Respuesta
A change from baseline interaction, muscle tone, eye contact, or cry can make appearance abnormal. Use the caregiver’s baseline report while directly assessing work of breathing and circulation. Sources: NAEMSP, Prehospital Pediatric Respiratory Distress and Airway Management Training and Education; caregiver baseline: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 190
Pregunta
After head trauma, repeated vomiting, worsening confusion, or a declining level of consciousness changes what decision?
Respuesta
It increases urgency for airway readiness, rapid transport, and advanced resources because neurologic deterioration may continue. Repeat the primary assessment and protect against secondary hypoxia and hypotension. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Head Injury, pp. 233–236.
Tarjeta 191
Pregunta
What is the purpose of exposure during the primary assessment?
Respuesta
Expose only enough to find immediate threats such as major bleeding, chest injury, burns, rash, or medical-alert information. Then cover the patient again and protect temperature and dignity. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 192
Pregunta
What should immediately follow necessary exposure in a cold environment?
Respuesta
Cover and insulate the patient from air and ground while continuing assessment. Preventing further heat loss is part of immediate care and should not wait for transport. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — General Approach.
Tarjeta 193
Pregunta
A trauma patient's clothing looks dry, but shock signs are present. What exposure action is justified?
Respuesta
Expose enough to search quickly for hidden external bleeding and major chest or abdominal injury while preserving warmth. Do not perform a prolonged detailed exam before urgent transport. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 194
Pregunta
How should the EMT balance exposure with patient dignity?
Respuesta
Expose only what is needed to find and treat threats, explain actions when possible, shield the patient from unnecessary view, and re-cover promptly. Immediate lifesaving access still takes priority. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 195
Pregunta
Why can a later-pregnancy patient become dizzy or hypotensive while fully supine?
Respuesta
The uterus can compress major vessels and reduce venous return and circulation. A positional change in symptoms supports this mechanism, but the EMT must still assess other causes of shock. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Positioning.
Tarjeta 196
Pregunta
Diffuse hives plus respiratory distress or poor perfusion: what does exposure reveal?
Respuesta
A systemic allergic pattern consistent with anaphylaxis. Prioritize airway and breathing support, protocol-authorized epinephrine, rapid transport, and early advanced resources. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Anaphylaxis.
Tarjeta 197
Pregunta
Which symptoms can represent a heart attack even when chest pain is absent or mild?
Respuesta
Shortness of breath; discomfort in the back, neck, jaw, or stomach; sweating; nausea; or lightheadedness. These presentations are especially important in women, older adults, and people with diabetes. Source: AHA/Red Cross, 2024 First Aid Guidelines — Chest Pain in Adults.
Tarjeta 198
Pregunta
A dyspneic patient can answer only one word at a time. What does that change?
Respuesta
It makes severe respiratory compromise the immediate priority. Assess air movement and fatigue, support oxygenation or ventilation as indicated, and accelerate transport and advanced-resource decisions. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Respiratory Distress, pp. 190–195.
Tarjeta 199
Pregunta
Severe abdominal pain plus weak pulses, pallor, and confusion: what outranks a detailed abdominal history?
Respuesta
Recognition and care of shock with rapid transport. The abdominal complaint may represent concealed bleeding or another time-critical cause, so support ABCs and avoid a prolonged scene evaluation. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Shock, pp. 107–110.
Tarjeta 200
Pregunta
Diabetic patient is confused, breathing adequately, and has no immediate circulation threat. What focused primary-assessment action is next?
Respuesta
Check blood glucose when monitoring is authorized and available, then treat according to airway protection and local protocol. If the result does not explain the presentation, continue assessing stroke, infection, trauma, and other causes. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73; authorization boundary: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 201
Pregunta
Unresponsive trauma patient with snoring respirations and a weak pulse: what is the immediate sequence?
Respuesta
Manually stabilize as indicated, open the airway, support ventilation, assess and control major bleeding, and move toward rapid transport with advanced resources. Treat each threat as it is found. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — General Trauma Management, pp. 208–213.
Tarjeta 202
Pregunta
Massive limb bleeding and an obstructed airway are found almost together. How should the team act?
Respuesta
Treat the critical problems simultaneously when enough trained clinicians are present: assign clear bleeding-control and airway tasks according to priorities, skills, and available resources. Request help if needed and follow the locally taught life-threat sequence. Sources: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15; AHRQ TeamSTEPPS, Team Leadership Concepts and Tools.
Tarjeta 203
Pregunta
A trapped patient has a worsening airway that the crew cannot reach. Which resource decision is immediate?
Respuesta
Request the rescue capability needed for access while directing any safe, feasible airway measures and preparing the transport path. State the airway threat clearly so rescue priorities match patient physiology. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 204
Pregunta
A critical patient needs ALS, but waiting on scene would delay definitive care. What is the safer plan?
Respuesta
Begin transport and arrange an intercept only if the local system can do so without harmful delay. Continue BLS care; ALS availability does not cancel the transport priority. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 205
Pregunta
How can a caregiver help during a child's primary assessment without delaying care?
Respuesta
Ask the caregiver about the child’s normal developmental and mental baseline and what changed while the EMT directly assesses appearance, work of breathing, circulation, and immediate threats. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Altered Mental Status, pp. 71–73.
Tarjeta 206
Pregunta
Why repeat the primary assessment after moving a patient to the stretcher or ambulance?
Respuesta
Movement, position change, and time can dislodge airway support, restart bleeding, alter breathing, or reveal deterioration. Recheck responsiveness, airway, breathing, circulation, and interventions immediately. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 207
Pregunta
A device or medication appears in a national EMT reference. Does that alone authorize its local use?
Respuesta
No. National scope describes minimum competencies; actual practice also requires education, certification, state licensure, and local credentialing or authorization. Follow current state law, agency protocol, and medical direction. Source: NHTSA, 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model with August 2021 change notices.
Tarjeta 208
Pregunta
When is the primary assessment complete enough to move on?
Respuesta
When immediate threats have been identified and managed as far as possible, the patient's priority is set, and transport and resource decisions are underway. It does not require a final diagnosis, and the primary assessment must be repeated when the patient changes. Source: NASEMSO, National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.0 — Universal Care, pp. 9–15.
Tarjeta 209
Pregunta
How should an EMT choose between a focused exam and a broader secondary survey?
Respuesta
Tailor the secondary survey to the patient’s presentation and chief complaint. Focus on the involved problem when that is sufficient; broaden the exam when the presentation suggests additional injury or illness. Never let the secondary survey delay transport of a critical patient, and follow local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 210
Pregunta
What should anchor the EMT's history after immediate life threats are managed?
Respuesta
Anchor the history in the patient's chief complaint, then investigate its onset, associated symptoms, relevant history, and pertinent negatives. Adapt the interview to the patient's age, communication needs, and condition. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 211
Pregunta
A stable patient reports shortness of breath. What belongs in the focused respiratory exam?
Respuesta
Inspect breathing effort and chest movement, assess respiratory rate and quality, listen to breath sounds when trained and equipped, check oxygenation in clinical context, and compare findings over time. Return to the primary assessment if breathing becomes inadequate. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 212
Pregunta
What must follow any EMT treatment during the secondary assessment?
Respuesta
Reassess the problem treated, repeat relevant vital signs, and judge whether the patient improved, worsened, or stayed unchanged. Use the result to continue, modify, or escalate the plan under local protocol and medical direction. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 213
Pregunta
For a symptom history, what does onset establish?
Respuesta
Onset establishes what the patient was doing when the symptom began and whether it started suddenly or gradually. Record the time as precisely as the history allows because it can affect time-sensitive care and destination decisions. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 214
Pregunta
What should a focused neurologic exam compare?
Respuesta
Compare mental status, speech, pupils when relevant, facial symmetry, and movement and sensation on both sides, then compare with the patient's known baseline and repeat findings. Use the locally approved stroke or neurologic assessment when indicated. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 215
Pregunta
Which allergy categories belong in a SAMPLE history?
Respuesta
Ask about medication, environmental, and food allergies. Record the patient’s report without assigning a diagnosis from history alone, then use the current local protocol when screening treatment. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 216
Pregunta
Which is usually more useful during reassessment: one abnormal vital sign or its trend?
Respuesta
The trend is usually more useful. Repeat measurements with the same sound technique when possible, relate them to the patient's appearance and symptoms, and act on deterioration rather than waiting for a single threshold. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 217
Pregunta
How should the EMT set the scope of the secondary survey?
Respuesta
Tailor it to the patient’s presentation and chief complaint, examining the relevant body systems and regions while watching for findings that require a broader survey. Do not delay transport of a critical patient to complete secondary details. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 218
Pregunta
What does provocation or palliation ask about in a symptom history?
Respuesta
It asks what makes the symptom worse or better, including movement, breathing, position, exertion, rest, or attempted treatment. Avoid forcing a maneuver that could harm the patient. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 219
Pregunta
How can a caregiver help with a child’s history?
Respuesta
Ask the child directly when developmentally appropriate and use the caregiver’s knowledge to clarify baseline, timeline, medications, and missing details. Note who supplied critical facts, and do not let family participation delay lifesaving care. Source: EMSC Patient- and Family-Centered Care Toolkit.
Tarjeta 220
Pregunta
What should an EMT compare in a focused extremity exam?
Respuesta
Compare the injured and uninjured sides for position, tenderness, swelling, deformity, skin findings, distal circulation, sensation, and movement when safe. Recheck distal neurovascular status after any splinting or movement. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 221
Pregunta
How should an EMT collect a patient's medication history?
Respuesta
Identify the patient’s current prescription and over-the-counter medications and bring containers or a reliable list when practical. Relate the medication history to the complaint and document unavailable or uncertain details rather than guessing. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 222
Pregunta
During a detailed exam, the patient becomes less responsive. What is the next assessment move?
Respuesta
Stop the detailed exam and repeat the primary assessment immediately. Manage new airway, breathing, circulation, or neurologic threats, upgrade resources and transport priority as needed, and resume secondary details only if they no longer delay critical care. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 223
Pregunta
What is the goal of asking a patient to describe symptom quality?
Respuesta
The goal is to capture the patient's own description—such as pressure, burning, tearing, or sharp—without suggesting an answer. Quality helps characterize the complaint but does not diagnose it by itself. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 224
Pregunta
What makes a negative finding pertinent in an EMT history?
Respuesta
It is pertinent when the absent symptom or sign would meaningfully affect risk, treatment, or destination for the patient's complaint. Ask and document targeted negatives; do not turn the history into an unfocused checklist. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 225
Pregunta
What should the 'events' part of a history establish?
Respuesta
Establish what happened before and around the illness or injury, including the sequence, exposures, exertion, trauma, or treatment already attempted. A clear timeline can reveal risks that a symptom label alone misses. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 226
Pregunta
How should an EMT interpret a pulse-oximetry value during reassessment?
Respuesta
Treat it as one part of the assessment, confirm that the signal and patient conditions make the reading plausible, and compare it with breathing effort, mental status, skin findings, and trend. Do not let a reassuring number override signs of inadequate ventilation. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 227
Pregunta
Why should a pain or symptom severity score be tied to a baseline?
Respuesta
A baseline lets the EMT compare the same patient's response over time. Use an age- and communication-appropriate scale consistently, and pair the number with function and observed distress rather than treating it as a stand-alone diagnosis. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 228
Pregunta
After protocol-directed treatment for suspected hypoglycemia, what should an EMT reassess?
Respuesta
Reassess vital signs, neurologic status, mental status, and symptoms. Repeat the blood-glucose check when mental status has not returned to normal and local protocol supports it; continued symptoms require transport and evaluation for another cause. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 229
Pregunta
Which past medical history is most useful in a focused EMT assessment?
Respuesta
Obtain the past medical history and look for medical alerts, portable records, advance directives, and implanted or external medical devices. Prioritize details relevant to the current complaint or treatment without delaying time-critical care. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 230
Pregunta
What makes reassessment documentation useful to the receiving team?
Respuesta
Record timed findings, interventions, and the patient's response in sequence. A trend such as worsening mental status or improving work of breathing is more useful when the handoff shows what changed and when. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 231
Pregunta
What does the time component of a symptom history add beyond onset?
Respuesta
It establishes how the symptom has changed since it began: constant or intermittent, improving or worsening, and whether similar episodes occurred. That trajectory helps the EMT recognize deterioration and choose the next assessment or transport priority. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 232
Pregunta
Which change after splinting means the splint or alignment needs immediate reassessment?
Respuesta
New or worsening pain, numbness, pallor or coolness, a weaker or absent distal pulse, or loss of movement compared with the pre-splint baseline. Correct or escalate under local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 233
Pregunta
Why can last oral intake be relevant in an EMT history?
Respuesta
It can clarify fasting, hydration, aspiration risk, glucose-related symptoms, and the timeline around an illness or injury. Treat it as context, not as a reason to give food or drink outside local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 234
Pregunta
Secretions are blocking an unresponsive patient's upper airway. What is the EMT priority?
Respuesta
Open the airway and suction the upper airway with the appropriate device, then immediately reassess patency and breathing. Ventilate if breathing is absent or inadequate; do not prolong suction at the expense of oxygenation. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 235
Pregunta
What is the 2025 AHA sequence for a responsive adult with severe foreign-body airway obstruction?
Respuesta
Give cycles of 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or the patient becomes unresponsive. Use chest thrusts instead when the abdomen cannot be encircled, including late pregnancy. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 236
Pregunta
A patient has a pulse but breathing is absent or inadequate. What treatment addresses ventilation?
Respuesta
Provide positive-pressure ventilation with a bag-mask device and supplemental oxygen when available, using only enough volume for visible chest rise. Reassess the pulse and breathing continuously. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 237
Pregunta
An unresponsive adult needs airway opening and no cervical spine injury is suspected. Which maneuver comes first?
Respuesta
Use a head tilt–chin lift to open the airway, then assess breathing and provide the needed support. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 238
Pregunta
Which patient is the usual candidate for an oropharyngeal airway?
Respuesta
An unresponsive patient without an intact gag reflex who needs help maintaining an open airway is the usual candidate. Size, insert, and monitor the device according to training and local protocol; remove it if it triggers gagging or vomiting. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 239
Pregunta
When should chest thrusts replace abdominal thrusts for a responsive adult with severe airway obstruction?
Respuesta
Use chest thrusts when the rescuer cannot encircle the abdomen, such as with late-stage pregnancy or a larger body habitus. Continue alternating 5 back blows with 5 chest thrusts until relief or unresponsiveness. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 240
Pregunta
When two trained rescuers are available, how should bag-mask ventilation roles be divided?
Respuesta
One rescuer opens the airway and maintains a two-handed mask seal while the other squeezes the bag; both watch for visible chest rise. Two-rescuer technique is preferred when feasible because mask seal and airway position are common failure points. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 241
Pregunta
An adult has suspected head or neck trauma and a jaw thrust does not open the airway. What takes priority?
Respuesta
Insert an appropriate airway adjunct if needed after the jaw thrust. If the jaw thrust plus adjunct still does not open the adult airway, use a head tilt–chin lift; oxygenation and ventilation take priority. Continue manual stabilization and follow local spinal-motion protocol. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 242
Pregunta
An adult has a pulse but is not breathing normally. What rescue-breathing rate is reasonable?
Respuesta
Give 1 ventilation every 6 seconds—10 per minute—with each breath producing visible chest rise. Recheck the pulse and breathing and follow current local resuscitation protocol. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 243
Pregunta
Severe facial trauma or a suspected basilar skull fracture is present. Which basic airway adjunct should an EMT avoid?
Respuesta
Avoid a nasopharyngeal airway; use another airway-opening approach or an oropharyngeal airway when indicated and tolerated. Follow local protocol because adjunct selection depends on anatomy, contraindications, and patient response. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 244
Pregunta
What is the treatment sequence for a responsive infant with severe foreign-body airway obstruction?
Respuesta
Give repeated cycles of 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until the object is expelled or the infant becomes unresponsive. Do not use abdominal thrusts on an infant. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 245
Pregunta
A cyanotic patient is breathing too slowly with poor chest rise. Is supplemental oxygen alone enough?
Respuesta
No. The immediate need is effective ventilation with an open airway; add supplemental oxygen to the ventilation device when available. Oxygen delivery cannot correct inadequate movement of air by itself. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 246
Pregunta
What immediate sign should guide the volume of each bag-mask breath?
Respuesta
Use visible chest rise as the immediate guide. Too little ventilation is ineffective, while excessive volume or rate can inflate the stomach, promote aspiration, and reduce cardiac output. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 247
Pregunta
An infant or child has a pulse but absent or inadequate breathing. What ventilation rate is reasonable?
Respuesta
Give 1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds—20 to 30 per minute—while watching for effective chest rise and avoiding excessive ventilation. Reassess the pulse and breathing. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 248
Pregunta
What is the treatment sequence for a responsive child with severe foreign-body airway obstruction?
Respuesta
Give repeated cycles of 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or the child becomes unresponsive. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 249
Pregunta
A pulse oximeter shows a normal value, but the patient has shallow breathing and worsening confusion. Which finding drives care?
Respuesta
The clinical signs drive care. Support the airway and ventilation, verify the oximeter signal, and trend the whole patient; pulse oximetry is only one part of assessment and does not directly measure ventilation. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 250
Pregunta
Which general patient profile may be considered for EMT-level CPAP?
Respuesta
Consider CPAP early for severe respiratory distress or impending respiratory failure when the patient is still breathing and the equipment, training, and local protocol support it. Coach the patient and monitor continuously; worsening mental status, vomiting, or other deterioration requires removal and airway escalation. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 251
Pregunta
An adult is unresponsive, only gasping, and has no definite pulse. What are the EMT's immediate circulatory actions?
Respuesta
Start high-quality CPR and apply an AED as soon as it is available. Coordinate airway and ventilation without delaying compressions or defibrillation. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 252
Pregunta
An adult with severe foreign-body airway obstruction becomes unresponsive. What should the EMT do?
Respuesta
Start CPR beginning with chest compressions. Each time the airway is opened for breaths, remove an object only if it is visible; do not perform a blind finger sweep. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 253
Pregunta
An apneic patient breathes through a tracheal stoma and cannot be ventilated through the mouth. What route may be used?
Respuesta
Ventilate through the stoma with an appropriate mask-to-stoma seal, watching for chest rise. Expose and clear the stoma as needed and follow local protocol for the patient's airway device. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 254
Pregunta
Why are effective ventilations especially important during pediatric CPR?
Respuesta
Pediatric cardiac arrest is often preceded by respiratory failure or asphyxia, so CPR for infants and children should include effective breaths as well as compressions. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 255
Pregunta
What airway check is required after moving or repositioning a patient?
Respuesta
Immediately confirm airway patency, breathing adequacy, chest rise, and the position and function of any airway adjunct or ventilation device. Correct displacement before continuing the transport plan. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 256
Pregunta
When should two rescuers plan to switch the person doing adult chest compressions?
Respuesta
Switch about every 2 minutes, ideally during a planned rhythm analysis or another natural pause, and keep the interruption as short as possible. Switch sooner if the compressor is fatigued. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 257
Pregunta
What is the initial treatment for severe external bleeding?
Respuesta
Apply firm direct manual pressure to the bleeding site. Maintain effective pressure while preparing the next control method if bleeding remains life-threatening. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 258
Pregunta
Without an advanced airway, what compression-to-ventilation ratios are reasonable for pediatric CPR?
Respuesta
Use 30:2 for a single rescuer and 15:2 for two rescuers. Follow the current locally adopted AHA/AAP resuscitation guidance. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 259
Pregunta
How long should a healthcare professional spend checking an unresponsive adult for a definite pulse?
Respuesta
No more than 10 seconds. If no definite pulse is felt in that time and breathing is absent or abnormal, treat the patient as being in cardiac arrest. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 260
Pregunta
What should happen immediately after an AED delivers a shock?
Respuesta
Resume chest compressions immediately instead of pausing for a pulse or rhythm check. Follow the AED prompts and current local resuscitation protocol. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 261
Pregunta
Life-threatening extremity bleeding continues despite direct pressure. What comes next?
Respuesta
Apply a commercial tourniquet 2–3 inches proximal to the wound, not over a joint, and tighten it until bleeding stops. Mark the time, keep the device visible, and tell subsequent clinicians it is present. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 262
Pregunta
How long should a healthcare professional check an infant or child for a definite pulse when no signs of life are present?
Respuesta
Check for no more than 10 seconds. If no definite pulse is felt, begin compressions. If a pulse is present but the heart rate remains below 60/min with signs of poor perfusion despite oxygenation and ventilation, begin CPR with compressions. Do not let an uncertain pulse check delay CPR. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 263
Pregunta
A patient shows signs of shock and is alert with no position-limiting injury. What general position is reasonable?
Respuesta
Keep the patient supine if that is tolerated. If alertness falls, vomiting occurs, or airway protection becomes a concern, position for airway safety while maintaining close monitoring; do not let positioning delay transport. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 264
Pregunta
Spontaneous circulation returns after cardiac arrest. What should the EMT prioritize next?
Respuesta
Reassess airway, breathing, circulation, and neurologic status; support ventilation and oxygenation as indicated, monitor closely for rearrest, and transport according to the local post-arrest plan. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 265
Pregunta
What is the transport priority for an adult with acute nontraumatic chest pain?
Respuesta
Treat it as time-sensitive: begin indicated assessment and protocol-directed care while arranging prompt transport to an appropriate emergency facility. Do not delay transport for a prolonged on-scene history or for symptoms to resolve. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 266
Pregunta
What information and system decision matter most after an EMT identifies a possible stroke?
Respuesta
Determine last known well or symptom-discovery time, perform the locally approved stroke assessment, check treatable mimics within scope, notify early, and transport to the protocol-designated stroke-capable facility without avoidable delay. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 267
Pregunta
What simple supportive care helps a patient with suspected shock during packaging and transport?
Respuesta
Prevent further heat loss while treating the cause, supporting airway and breathing, and transporting promptly. Use blankets and environmental control without delaying definitive care or causing overheating. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 268
Pregunta
A patient has signs of anaphylaxis. What is the EMT’s epinephrine priority?
Respuesta
Give or assist with intramuscular epinephrine by auto-injector promptly when anaphylaxis is suspected, the correct device is available, and the EMT is trained and authorized under local protocol. Epinephrine is the primary treatment; support airway and breathing, activate transport, and reassess without delaying it for a generic contraindication screen. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 269
Pregunta
Which CPR-quality principle applies during airway care, AED use, and rescuer changes?
Respuesta
Minimize interruptions in chest compressions. Prepare equipment and coordinate roles so necessary pauses are brief and compressions resume immediately. Source: 2025 AHA Adult Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 270
Pregunta
How does an EMT know a tourniquet is tight enough?
Respuesta
The life-threatening bleeding stops and the distal pulse is eliminated. If bleeding continues, reassess placement and tightness and place a second tourniquet proximal to the first under training and protocol. Reassess without removing the device, and do not loosen it to relieve pain. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 271
Pregunta
An open fracture has severe bleeding. What is the treatment sequence?
Respuesta
Control life-threatening bleeding first, dress the open wound, stabilize the extremity, and reassess distal neurovascular status. Pack around rather than remove bone fragments or foreign objects, and follow local splinting and realignment protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 272
Pregunta
When may an EMT administer or assist with an inhaled bronchodilator?
Respuesta
Use it for protocol-defined dyspnea with wheezing after confirming the indication, medication, contraindications, device, and EMT authorization. Continue airway and ventilation assessment; wheezing does not guarantee adequate air movement. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 273
Pregunta
Breathing worsens after a dressing is applied to an open chest wound. What should the EMT do?
Respuesta
Reassess immediately and loosen or remove the dressing if it may be trapping air, while supporting breathing and transporting urgently. Use a vented chest seal or other locally approved approach; a fully occlusive improvised seal can worsen tension. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 274
Pregunta
What is the EMT treatment principle for an impaled object that remains in a wound?
Respuesta
Leave it in place, control bleeding around it, and stabilize it to limit movement. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 275
Pregunta
Which distal findings must be checked before and after splinting an extremity?
Respuesta
Check and document distal circulation, sensation, and movement before and after the splint. A new deficit after splinting means the device or alignment needs immediate reassessment under local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 276
Pregunta
Severe bleeding comes from a wound where a tourniquet cannot be applied. What control method may be indicated?
Respuesta
Pack the wound with gauze or a hemostatic dressing when trained, then hold firm direct pressure. Continue reassessment and rapid transport; product use and packing technique follow local protocol. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 277
Pregunta
A trauma patient has signs of shock and active external bleeding. Which circulation action cannot wait for packaging?
Respuesta
Control the external bleeding immediately with direct pressure and escalate to a tourniquet or wound packing when indicated, while arranging rapid transport. Supportive shock care cannot replace stopping the source of blood loss. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 278
Pregunta
What must an EMT establish before protocol-directed aspirin for suspected ischemic chest pain?
Respuesta
Confirm that the presentation and local protocol indicate aspirin and screen for allergy, active bleeding or other protocol contraindications, and prior professional advice not to take it. Give only the locally authorized formulation and dose. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 279
Pregunta
What is the default position for splinting a deformed extremity?
Respuesta
Treat a deformed fractured extremity in the position found unless straightening is needed for safe, prompt transport. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid. If distal vascular function is compromised, gently restore normal anatomic position only as training and local protocol allow, then reassess perfusion. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 280
Pregunta
Can a commercial tourniquet be considered for a young child with life-threatening extremity bleeding?
Respuesta
Yes. Use an appropriately sized commercial device according to training and tighten it until bleeding stops; current first-aid evidence supports successful use in children, including some as young as 2 years. Follow local pediatric protocol and device instructions. Source: 2024 AHA and American Red Cross Guidelines for First Aid.
Tarjeta 281
Pregunta
What medication-safety process must EMT education include?
Respuesta
A medication cross-check procedure. The national education standard requires the process but does not prescribe one universal checklist, so use the agency’s defined cross-check and current local protocol before administration, then document and reassess. Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.
Tarjeta 282
Pregunta
Should mechanism of injury alone automatically place every trauma patient on a long backboard?
Respuesta
No. Apply spinal motion restriction selectively from the patient's examination and validated local criteria; minimize unnecessary movement and use the least restrictive effective method. A long backboard is mainly an extrication and movement tool, not routine transport treatment for every mechanism. Source: NAEMSP joint position statement on spinal motion restriction.
Tarjeta 283
Pregunta
Does national EMT scope make a traction splint appropriate for every suspected femur injury?
Respuesta
No. National scope identifies a skill an EMT may be authorized to perform; it does not replace the local indication, contraindication, device, and training rules for a particular patient. Source: 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model. Treat life threats first and use the traction splint only under the current local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 284
Pregunta
Which three questions guide an EMT's destination decision for a time-sensitive patient?
Respuesta
Ask how unstable the patient is, which facility has the needed capability, and whether travel or bypass time changes the risk. Apply the local system plan and consult medical direction when the best destination is unclear. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 285
Pregunta
What national EMT-scope limit applies to sublingual nitroglycerin for suspected ischemic chest pain?
Respuesta
The national model limits EMT assistance to the patient’s own prescribed sublingual nitroglycerin. Source: 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model. Confirm that the current local protocol authorizes assistance and that its indication, blood-pressure, and medication-history checks are satisfied; follow medical direction and the authorized dose. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 286
Pregunta
What is a key equipment principle when spinal motion restriction is indicated for a child?
Respuesta
Use age- and size-appropriate padding and restraint so the head, neck, and torso remain aligned without forcing the child into an ill-fitting adult device. Reassess airway, breathing, comfort, and neurologic findings after securing. Source: NAEMSP joint position statement on spinal motion restriction.
Tarjeta 287
Pregunta
What equipment step reduces avoidable error before pediatric airway or ventilation care?
Respuesta
Select appropriately sized pediatric equipment before use, confirm fit and function under local training, and reassess the child after placement. Use the locally approved length- or weight-based tool when it guides equipment selection. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 288
Pregunta
What controls destination when an injured patient meets the trauma criteria adopted by the EMS system?
Respuesta
Apply the current local or regional trauma triage and destination protocol, including its facility capabilities, bypass limits, transport constraints, and medical-direction process. National models help systems build protocols; they do not replace the operational rule adopted where the EMT practices. Source: EMS.gov State EMS Systems.
Tarjeta 289
Pregunta
Which suspected hypoglycemia patient may receive oral glucose from an EMT?
Respuesta
A patient who can follow commands, protect the airway, and safely swallow may receive oral glucose when local protocol indicates it. Do not put oral glucose into the mouth of a patient who cannot protect the airway. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 290
Pregunta
What is the medication-safety rule when a pediatric dose is weight based?
Respuesta
Use a measured weight when available or the locally approved length/weight tool, then verify the calculation and device with a medication cross-check. Never substitute an adult dose or an unsupported guess; use the current local protocol or contact medical direction. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 291
Pregunta
How can a caregiver help during pediatric treatment when the scene is safe?
Respuesta
Use the caregiver’s knowledge to clarify the child’s baseline and support communication, comfort, and safe participation while the EMT continues direct assessment and care. Family involvement must remain safe and must not delay a lifesaving intervention. Source: EMSC Patient- and Family-Centered Care Toolkit.
Tarjeta 292
Pregunta
A patient has suspected opioid overdose with respiratory arrest and a pulse. Which treatment must not wait for naloxone?
Respuesta
Open the airway and provide effective ventilations immediately; give naloxone as soon as available and authorized. Naloxone can take time and does not replace airway and breathing support. Source: 2025 AHA Adult and Pediatric Special Circumstances Guidelines.
Tarjeta 293
Pregunta
Does the national EMT scope model make oral over-the-counter analgesics universally authorized?
Respuesta
No. The national model includes oral over-the-counter analgesics, but actual EMT authority depends on state scope, medical direction, and local implementation. Source: 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model. Choose only the medication, patient-screening process, and dose authorized by the current local protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 294
Pregunta
After an older adult falls or has a head impact, which medication history raises concern for brain bleeding?
Respuesta
Anticoagulant or antiplatelet use. CDC notes that traumatic brain injury can be missed in older adults and that these medicines may increase the risk of brain bleeding after TBI. Reassess carefully and follow the local head-injury transport and medical-control plan. Source: CDC Facts About Traumatic Brain Injury.
Tarjeta 295
Pregunta
A child with respiratory distress becomes quieter, less responsive, and has weaker effort. How should this change treatment?
Respuesta
Treat it as progression toward respiratory failure: open and support the airway, begin effective assisted ventilation when breathing is inadequate, request advanced resources, and transport urgently. Do not interpret reduced struggle as improvement. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Pediatric Basic Life Support Guidelines.
Tarjeta 296
Pregunta
A patient breathes normally after naloxone. Why are continued reassessment and transport still needed?
Respuesta
Respiratory depression can recur after the opioid antagonist wears off. Continue airway and breathing monitoring, be ready to ventilate and repeat naloxone per protocol, and transport for observation. Source: 2025 AHA Adult and Pediatric Special Circumstances Guidelines.
Tarjeta 297
Pregunta
What should guide destination for a child with serious trauma?
Respuesta
Use the local or regional pediatric trauma triage and destination policy. Match the child’s needs with known pediatric capabilities and resources while applying the system’s transport-time, stabilization, bypass, and medical-direction rules. Source: 2024 Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Checklist.
Tarjeta 298
Pregunta
A later-pregnancy patient becomes dizzy and hypotensive while lying flat. What positioning change may help?
Respuesta
Move the patient off a fully supine position toward the left side if injuries and airway needs allow, while treating other causes of shock and transporting promptly. Reassess the response and follow local obstetric protocol. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 299
Pregunta
Crowning is present during active labor. What should the EMT plan?
Respuesta
Prepare for delivery where the patient is, request appropriate additional resources, support a controlled birth, and prepare separate care and warming equipment for the newborn. Do not attempt to delay delivery by holding the presenting part in. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 300
Pregunta
What belongs in a concise prearrival report for a time-sensitive patient?
Respuesta
Lead with the patient’s age, chief complaint or mechanism, timed vital-sign trends, key assessment findings, interventions, and response. Use the receiving system’s required prearrival format and activation process. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 301
Pregunta
Should an EMT independently bypass the nearest hospital for every suspected stroke?
Respuesta
No. Use the regional stroke plan, which weighs the stroke screen, severity criteria if adopted, last known well, stability, destination capability, and added transport time. Consult medical direction when required. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 302
Pregunta
What pregnancy-specific BLS action accompanies chest compressions when the uterine fundus is at or above the umbilicus?
Respuesta
Provide continuous manual left lateral uterine displacement while keeping the patient supine for effective compressions. Request the system's highest obstetric and resuscitation resources immediately. Source: 2025 AHA Adult and Pediatric Special Circumstances Guidelines.
Tarjeta 303
Pregunta
A newborn is not breathing effectively after birth. Which initial actions come before prolonged stimulation?
Respuesta
Warm and maintain temperature, dry, position the airway, briefly stimulate, and clear the airway only if obstruction is suspected. If apnea, gasping, or ineffective breathing persists, begin ventilation promptly; prolonged stimulation must not delay it. Source: 2025 AHA/AAP Neonatal Resuscitation Guidelines.
Tarjeta 304
Pregunta
Which time points should an EMT communicate for a suspected stroke?
Respuesta
Communicate last known well, when symptoms were discovered, and the time of the EMT's assessment; say when any time is unknown or estimated. Include the stroke-screen findings and relevant trend so the receiving system can act before arrival. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 305
Pregunta
What should an EMT do before moving a bariatric patient when the available crew or cot may be inadequate?
Respuesta
Pause and request the trained personnel and patient-handling equipment needed for a safe move under the agency plan. Keep immediate medical care going, plan the route, explain the process respectfully, and do not improvise a lift that risks patient or crew injury. Source: CDC/NIOSH EMS Worker Safety.
Tarjeta 306
Pregunta
A locally authorized 12-lead acquisition indicates a possible STEMI. What system actions follow?
Respuesta
Transmit or communicate the finding as the system requires, notify early, continue protocol-directed care, and transport to the designated cardiac-capable destination under the regional plan. EMT acquisition, interpretation, bypass, and activation authority vary locally. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 307
Pregunta
A medically complex child has an unfamiliar device and an abnormal-looking baseline. What is the safest information source?
Respuesta
The child and caregiver are the first source: ask what is normal, what changed, and how the device usually works. Check for an emergency medical information form, card, or notebook; assess the child and device, bring the go bag, and consult medical control when needed under local protocol. Source: 2009 North Carolina EMSC guidance for children with special health care needs.
Tarjeta 308
Pregunta
Which clinical information belongs in a trauma prearrival notification?
Respuesta
Report the patient’s age, chief complaint or injury mechanism, timed vital-sign trends, key assessment findings, major interventions, and response. Use the receiving system’s local activation trigger and report format. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 309
Pregunta
What question should guide a request for air medical transport?
Respuesta
Ask whether the aircraft's clinical capability or total time to appropriate care is likely to benefit this patient more than ground transport, after considering availability, landing-zone time, weather, and local activation criteria. Do not request it from mechanism alone. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 310
Pregunta
How should an EMT use national burn-referral criteria in a destination decision?
Respuesta
Use them to identify patients who may benefit from burn-center consultation or transfer, then follow the regional burn and trauma plan. Consider burn depth and extent, location, inhalation risk, associated trauma, age, and local resources rather than choosing a destination from one feature alone. Source: American Burn Association Burn Patient Referral Guidelines.
Tarjeta 311
Pregunta
What limitation should an EMT remember when judging pediatric ambulance-restraint products?
Respuesta
Unlike passenger-vehicle child seats, pediatric ambulance restraints do not yet have one U.S. crash-test standard. Use only the manufacturer's intended position and size range and the agency's approved device and policy. Source: EMS for Children safe-transport guidance.
Tarjeta 312
Pregunta
What information must accompany an EMS transfer of care?
Respuesta
Provide the patient’s identity and age, chief complaint, history or mechanism, past history, medications, allergies, timed vital signs, assessment, interventions, and response. Give a verbal and abbreviated written report when the full record is not yet available; local policy defines who may accept care and when responsibility transfers. Source: NASEMSO National Model EMS Clinical Guidelines, Version 3.
Tarjeta 313
Pregunta
What is the purpose of a start-of-shift ambulance check?
Respuesta
Confirm that required equipment works and that medications and supplies are present before a call exposes a gap. Document the check under agency policy.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Recommended Essential Equipment for BLS and ALS Ground Ambulances.
Tarjeta 314
Pregunta
What governs ambulance response mode and any driving exemptions?
Respuesta
Follow current state and local law, agency policy, dispatch authorization, and emergency-vehicle driver training. Warning devices request cooperation but do not guarantee right-of-way or remove the duty to drive safely.

Source: Emergency Vehicle Safety Initiative.
Tarjeta 315
Pregunta
Who determines the required medication and supply quantities on a ground ambulance?
Respuesta
The EMS medical director and agency protocols. The national equipment statement requires quantities to be sufficient for continuous readiness but does not set one universal count.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 316
Pregunta
Why check multiple BVM and mask sizes before the shift?
Respuesta
The crew must be ready to ventilate patients across the expected age and body-size range without improvising a poor seal. Verify each required size and accessory locally.

Source: 2021 National EMS Education Standards, amended February 24, 2025.
Tarjeta 317
Pregunta
An oxygen cylinder is below the agency's replacement threshold. What should the EMT do?
Respuesta
Restore the oxygen supply to the agency-defined in-service quantity before relying on it. The medical director or agency protocol determines the exact quantity and exchange threshold.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 318
Pregunta
Does the National Registry test plan define which encounters require an ePCR?
Respuesta
No. NREMT identifies Operations as an EMT exam domain, while the instructional guidelines leave reporting details to state or local requirements; exact reportable encounters and form follow applicable law and agency policy.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 319
Pregunta
What ambulance safety practice does NIOSH recommend for EMS clinicians?
Respuesta
Use seatbelts in ambulances.

Source: EMS Worker Safety.
Tarjeta 320
Pregunta
What pediatric readiness items deserve a deliberate daily check?
Respuesta
Confirm age-appropriate airway, ventilation, assessment, immobilization, and restraint equipment is present and functional. The medical director or protocol determines exact quantities.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 321
Pregunta
What should happen when a readiness check finds missing supplies?
Respuesta
Rapidly replace or otherwise mitigate the missing items so continuous readiness is restored. Required quantities follow the medical director and agency protocols.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 322
Pregunta
What must an AED readiness check confirm?
Respuesta
Confirm the AED passes its routine function check and that adult plus pediatric or combination pads are present. Follow manufacturer and agency requirements.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 323
Pregunta
What is closed-loop communication?
Respuesta
The sender initiates the message, the receiver repeats or confirms the understood message, and the sender verifies that the understanding is accurate.

Source: Tool: Check-Back (or Repeat-Back).
Tarjeta 324
Pregunta
What basic quality standard applies to EMT documentation?
Respuesta
Include objective and subjective information clearly, along with the required patient and administrative data. Follow the local ePCR format.

Source: Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 325
Pregunta
Why secure monitors, cylinders, and bags before transport?
Respuesta
Unsecured equipment can injure occupants in a crash or sudden stop. Use the ambulance's provided mounting and restraint systems before movement.

Source: Emergency Medical Services Workers: How Employers Can Prevent Injuries and Exposures.
Tarjeta 326
Pregunta
Why use plain language on an interagency incident?
Respuesta
Plain language reduces ambiguity when agencies use different codes or jargon and supports the common terminology required for coordinated operations.

Source: National Incident Management System Toolkit.
Tarjeta 327
Pregunta
What should a team brief establish before a complex move or procedure?
Respuesta
Identify the team and leader, goals, roles, plan, expected outcomes, and available resources so the crew begins with shared expectations.

Source: Sharing the Care Plan: Brief.
Tarjeta 328
Pregunta
What should a suction-equipment readiness check establish?
Respuesta
Confirm the manual and powered suction devices pass routine function checks and that suction catheters are available from neonatal through adult sizes.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 329
Pregunta
Which time-linked details should an ePCR preserve?
Respuesta
Record the times the system requires for dispatch, arrival, patient contact, assessments, interventions, response, movement, and transfer so the clinical sequence can be reconstructed.

Source: NEMSIS Version 3 Data Dictionaries and XSD.
Tarjeta 330
Pregunta
What electronic-device behavior is unsafe for the ambulance driver?
Respuesta
Do not text, use a handheld phone, or manually enter data while driving. Transfer the task or stop in a safe place.

Source: Emergency Medical Services Workers: How Employers Can Prevent Injuries and Exposures.
Tarjeta 331
Pregunta
A crew member's safety concern is not resolved after the first challenge. What should they do?
Respuesta
Voice the concern assertively at least twice. If the danger remains, take stronger action and escalate through the supervisor or chain of command; stop the line for an essential safety breach.

Source: Tool: Two-Challenge Rule.
Tarjeta 332
Pregunta
What does NIMS common terminology solve?
Respuesta
It gives agencies shared names for functions, resources, and facilities so teams can coordinate without translating incompatible local jargon.

Source: National Incident Management System Toolkit.
Tarjeta 333
Pregunta
Which three points should an EMT refusal record cover?
Respuesta
Record the assessment performed (or what the patient allowed), the recommended care, and the possible consequences of refusing that were explained to the patient. Complete the full refusal process under applicable state law, medical direction, and agency protocol.

Source: Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 334
Pregunta
Which structure can organize a concise receiving-facility radio report?
Respuesta
Use SBAR: situation, background, assessment, and recommendation or request. Select the relevant details and follow the receiving system's required format.

Source: Tool: SBAR.
Tarjeta 335
Pregunta
A treatment can be delayed briefly until the attendant is belted. What is the safer choice?
Respuesta
Sit and buckle the available restraint before the vehicle moves. Organize care to minimize time unrestrained in the patient compartment.

Source: Emergency Medical Services Workers: How Employers Can Prevent Injuries and Exposures.
Tarjeta 336
Pregunta
What is unity of command in ICS?
Respuesta
Each individual reports to only one designated supervisor for the incident assignment. This prevents conflicting orders within the incident organization.

Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.
Tarjeta 337
Pregunta
How should an EMT correct a completed ePCR?
Respuesta
Use a clearly identified amendment or correction that preserves the original entry and records the date and author. Follow the ePCR and agency correction process.

Source: Clarifying the Instructions for Amending or Correcting Entries in Medical Records.
Tarjeta 338
Pregunta
What national readiness principle applies to the ambulance cot?
Respuesta
Include the gurney in routine preventive maintenance and function checks. Rapidly mitigate a malfunction before the unit relies on it.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 339
Pregunta
The patient's condition changes after the hospital notification. What should EMS do?
Respuesta
Send a prompt SBAR update: identify the new situation, relevant background, reassessment, and recommendation or request. Follow the receiving system's required format.

Source: Tool: SBAR.
Tarjeta 340
Pregunta
What should an emergency-vehicle driver do at an intersection?
Respuesta
Approach at a controllable speed, come to a complete stop where law or training requires it, and proceed only after every lane and the path ahead are visibly clear.

Source: Emergency Vehicle Safety Initiative.
Tarjeta 341
Pregunta
What transfer-of-care facts should the record identify?
Respuesta
Identify the receiving person or service, transfer location and time, patient condition, information given, and disposition according to the ePCR and local requirements.

Source: NEMSIS Version 3 Data Dictionaries and XSD.
Tarjeta 342
Pregunta
A monitor or stretcher fails its function check. What is the readiness priority?
Respuesta
Rapidly mitigate the malfunction and restore functional equipment before the unit relies on it. Follow the agency's maintenance and replacement process.

Source: Recommended Essential Equipment for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulances 2020: A Joint Position Statement.
Tarjeta 343
Pregunta
Which abilities can work-related fatigue impair?
Respuesta
Fatigue can slow reaction time, reduce attention and short-term memory, and impair judgment—all directly relevant to driving and patient care.

Source: Fatigue and Work.
Tarjeta 344
Pregunta
May a child ride unrestrained or in an adult's arms in a moving ambulance?
Respuesta
No. Secure each child with an appropriate child-restraint system for the transport situation; never plan to use an adult's arms as the restraint.

Source: Working Group Best-Practice Recommendations for the Safe Transportation of Children in Emergency Ground Ambulances.
Tarjeta 345
Pregunta
Visibility is poor while backing the ambulance. What should the driver do?
Respuesta
Stop rather than guess and use a spotter when available. If the spotter disappears from view or the path becomes uncertain, stop again.

Source: Emergency Vehicle Safety Initiative.
Tarjeta 346
Pregunta
What ground qualities make a safer helicopter landing zone?
Respuesta
Use a site that is level, firm, and free of loose debris, with adequate size and clearance for the specific aircraft as confirmed by the flight crew.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual, Chapter 10: Helicopter Operations.
Tarjeta 347
Pregunta
A responder recognizes fatigue is making driving or care unsafe. What should they do?
Respuesta
If driving, pull over safely. Report fatigue in yourself or a coworker to the direct supervisor, who can determine the safest course of action.

Source: Driver Fatigue on the Job.
Tarjeta 348
Pregunta
How is the correct pediatric ambulance restraint selected?
Respuesta
Match the restraint solution to the child's size and medical condition, the required care and monitoring, and the approved transport position. Follow manufacturer, state, and agency requirements.

Source: Working Group Best-Practice Recommendations for the Safe Transportation of Children in Emergency Ground Ambulances.
Tarjeta 349
Pregunta
What is the operational purpose of a staging area?
Respuesta
It is a temporary location for available resources awaiting tactical assignment. Staging tracks their status and keeps unassigned resources controlled.

Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.
Tarjeta 350
Pregunta
What makes a transfer-of-care handoff complete?
Respuesta
Transfer the relevant patient information, responsibility, and accountability; communicate recent changes, treatment response, and the contingency plan; allow questions and obtain the receiver's acknowledgment.

Source: Tool: Handoff.
Tarjeta 351
Pregunta
Which landing-zone hazards must be reported to the helicopter crew?
Respuesta
Report wires, poles, trees, vehicles, people, terrain, loose debris, smoke, lighting, wind, and other obstacles; wires deserve explicit mention because they can be hard to see from the air.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual, Chapter 10: Helicopter Operations.
Tarjeta 352
Pregunta
An EMS employer wants to promote safe patient handling. What should it provide?
Respuesta
Provide the needed equipment for safe patient-handling techniques.

Source: EMS Worker Safety.
Tarjeta 353
Pregunta
How should a crew request extra resources inside an established incident command system?
Respuesta
Use the established resource-ordering process and assigned supervisor. State the needed capability; do not independently deploy resources that have not been requested and dispatched.

Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.
Tarjeta 354
Pregunta
Does HIPAA block a clinically necessary handoff to another treating provider?
Respuesta
No. The Privacy Rule permits disclosures for treatment, and the minimum-necessary rule does not apply to provider-to-provider treatment disclosures. Still use reasonable safeguards and agency-approved channels.

Source: Uses and Disclosures for Treatment, Payment, and Health Care Operations.
Tarjeta 355
Pregunta
When may ground EMS approach a running helicopter?
Respuesta
Approach only after the flight crew signals and only by the direction and route that crew specifies; secure loose items and never walk toward the tail rotor.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual, Chapter 10: Helicopter Operations.
Tarjeta 356
Pregunta
What administrative action follows an occupational exposure or near miss?
Respuesta
Report it through the agency's injury and near-miss system so the event can be evaluated and used to prevent recurrence. Follow the required exposure follow-up process.

Source: Emergency Medical Services Workers: How Employers Can Prevent Injuries and Exposures.
Tarjeta 357
Pregunta
After an ambulance crash, which scene-size-up tasks restart?
Respuesta
Protect responders, patients, and the public; investigate potential patients; and request resources based on the hazards and patient conditions. Then follow the local crash procedure.

Sources: NREMT certification examinations content; Emergency Medical Technician Instructional Guidelines.
Tarjeta 358
Pregunta
What should accompany a transfer of incident command?
Respuesta
Use the established transfer process, give the incoming commander a briefing with essential incident information, and communicate the effective time and date of transfer to incident personnel.

Source: National Incident Management System, Third Edition.
Tarjeta 359
Pregunta
Who has final authority over whether an aircraft operates?
Respuesta
The pilot in command is directly responsible for and has final authority over the operation of the aircraft.

Source: Aeronautical Information Publication, Chapter 6, Section 1: General.
Tarjeta 360
Pregunta
What support should an EMT use when traumatic stress persists or interferes with daily life?
Respuesta
Use peer support and any formal mental or behavioral health support the employer provides; seek professional help early. If you might harm yourself or someone else, call 911 or 988.

Source: Hurricane and Flood Key Messages for Employers, Workers, and Volunteers, 2025.

Editorial illustration of one responder checking a seated patient’s wrist beside an open unbranded ambulance while a second responder prepares a stretcher.

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