West Coast EMT Block One Exam

When you are escorted to a patient who has been shot in a hostage situation, what is the initial action you should take?

1. A. Limit your primary assessment to airway and breathing only

2. B. Treat only critical injuries before moving him to a safe place

3. C. Perform a rapid assessment and move him to a place of safety

4. D. Grab him by the clothes and immediately move him to safety

The correct answer is: D. Grab him by the clothes and immediately move him to safety

In a hostage situation, patient safety and the safety of the responder are paramount. The initial action should prioritize assessing the environment and determining if it is safe to engage with the patient. Option D suggests physically moving the patient without consideration of the surroundings, which does not acknowledge the need for a careful situational assessment. The appropriate response in this scenario involves conducting a rapid assessment to determine the severity of the patient's injuries and mobility status while being aware of ongoing threats. Knowing that the situation is volatile, the initial action should focus on safeguarding both the patient and yourself. This involves ensuring the area is secure before attempts to treat or move the patient, as doing so without appropriate caution can exacerbate dangers. The guiding principle is to move the patient only if it is safe to do so, and rapid assessments help to make informed decisions quickly. Effective response in emergency medical situations, especially in complex scenarios like hostage situations, must always emphasize safety and awareness. Therefore, the correct choice involves assessing the environment and determining the best course of action to provide care without increasing risks.