West Coast EMT Block One Exam

What should be prioritized when performing an emergency move for a patient?

1. Ensuring the patient is stabilized

2. Avoiding any physical contact with the patient

3. Minimizing movement to preserve spinal alignment

4. Quick retrieval from danger

The correct answer is: Quick retrieval from danger

When performing an emergency move for a patient, the main priority is to ensure a quick retrieval from danger. Emergency situations often involve a risk to both the patient's life and the responder's safety. The speed of the move is essential, particularly in life-threatening scenarios where immediate extraction from hazards—such as fire, traffic, or environmental dangers—is crucial. While other factors like spinal alignment and patient stabilization are important in non-emergency situations or with patients who are stable, the urgency of removing the patient from immediate danger takes precedence in an emergency setting. It is vital to act decisively to prevent further harm, especially if there is a risk of explosion, fire, or other imminent threats.