West Coast EMT Block One Exam

In what manner should you transport an unresponsive 22-year-old female patient who has overdosed?

1. Secured to a stair chair with the strongest provider at the head end

2. Secured to a fracture board with the strongest provider at the head end

3. Secured to a stair chair with the strongest provider at the foot end

4. Secured to a fracture board with the strongest provider at the foot end

The correct answer is: Secured to a fracture board with the strongest provider at the head end

Transporting an unresponsive patient who has overdosed requires careful consideration of their condition and the safest method for movement. Securing the patient to a fracture board is appropriate because this device provides full support to the body, minimizing the risk of exacerbating any potential spinal injuries or further compromising their airway. When a patient is unresponsive, maintaining spinal alignment is crucial, especially if any trauma is suspected. The fracture board allows for effective immobilization while still being able to perform necessary interventions such as monitoring vital signs. Positioning the strongest provider at the head end is advantageous since this person can maintain the patient's airway, which is vital in an overdose case. Ensuring that the support is focused at the head allows for prompt airway management, which could be critical given the patient's unresponsive state. The other methods suggested may not provide the same level of stability or airway management, especially if the provider at the foot end does not have the ability to assist in airway control or rapid interventions as needed. Therefore, securing the patient to a fracture board with the strongest provider at the head end offers the best compromise between patient safety and effective management of their condition during transport.