West Coast EMT Block One Exam

You are transporting an elderly woman who has possibly experienced a stroke. In addition to providing medical care, you should:

1. reassure her that after proper treatment in the hospital, she will regain her speech

2. maintain eye contact and tell her that there is no need to be scared

3. acknowledge that she is scared and tell her you will take good care of her

4. tell her that you understand why she is scared and everything will likely be okay

The correct answer is: acknowledge that she is scared and tell her you will take good care of her

Acknowledging that the patient is scared and assuring her that you will take good care of her is crucial in emergency medical situations, particularly when dealing with vulnerable populations such as the elderly. This approach validates her feelings, providing a sense of support and empathy during a frightening experience. It helps to establish trust between the patient and the caregiver, which can have a calming effect and assist in alleviating anxiety. Expressing understanding of her fear allows her to feel heard and cared for, which can positively impact her emotional state during the transport. Providing this kind of reassurance can make her more cooperative and open to your care, enhancing the overall outcome of the situation. While maintaining eye contact is important for communication, and telling her there’s no need to be scared can be comforting, it doesn't specifically acknowledge her feelings in the same way. Confidence in your care is important, but focusing on her emotional needs and reinforcement of your support plays a more crucial role in this context.