West Coast EMT Block One Exam

If a technical rescue team is required at the scene but is not present, what should you do?

1. Don personal protective equipment and begin the rescue process

2. Check with the incident commander to ensure that the team is en route

3. Remain with your ambulance until the rescue team arrives

4. Have fire personnel initiate the rescue process if they are at the scene

The correct answer is: Check with the incident commander to ensure that the team is en route

The most appropriate course of action is to check with the incident commander to ensure that the technical rescue team is en route. This step is crucial because the incident commander is responsible for the overall management of the incident scene, including resource allocation and ensuring that necessary teams, such as a technical rescue team, are dispatched promptly. By confirming the team's status, you ensure that the rescue efforts are coordinated effectively and that you are not prematurely initiating a rescue that may require specialized skills and equipment, which only the technical rescue team possesses. Taking this action also helps to maintain chain of command and situational awareness, ensuring that all responders are kept informed about the status of essential resources. It is vital to avoid taking individual actions that could compromise safety or the effectiveness of the rescue operation, which could occur if you were to begin the rescue on your own or rely on other untrained personnel. Therefore, confirming with the incident commander is the best way to proceed in such a scenario.