West Coast EMT Block One Exam

In which situation would EMTs MOST likely utilize a police escort?

1. The weather is treacherous with numerous roads washed out.

2. The call is for an unresponsive patient with CPR in progress.

3. The EMTs are unfamiliar with the location and need local knowledge.

4. The EMTs are transporting a critical pediatric patient through traffic.

The correct answer is: The EMTs are unfamiliar with the location and need local knowledge.

In scenarios requiring a police escort, EMTs often face situations where navigation through complex environments is challenging. An unfamiliar location can lead to delays, which can impact patient care in emergencies. A police escort can help navigating traffic and road conditions, offering route familiarity and allowing EMS personnel to focus solely on patient care rather than navigation. While other options may involve unique challenges, they do not specifically align with the typical scenarios that warrant a police escort. For instance, treacherous weather may require increased caution, but it does not inherently demand police assistance; the urgency of transport for a critical pediatric patient through heavy traffic might necessitate swift movement rather than police involvement; meanwhile, an unresponsive patient needing CPR would prioritize immediate medical response over navigation concerns. Thus, needing local knowledge in an unfamiliar area stands out as the most fitting context for utilizing a police escort.