Final answer:
In the case of internal bleeding, the first step an EMT must take is to ensure a patent airway, followed by other procedures like controlling bleeding and checking vital signs. In emergency situations like a severe accident with no time to determine blood type, O negative blood is used for transfusion due to its universal compatibility.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for a patient with internal bleeding, the EMT must first ensure a patent airway. This is a critical step because a patient who cannot breathe effectively will not benefit from any further treatments intended to control bleeding or protect against other injuries. Once the airway is secured, EMTs can then proceed to take standard precautions, control any external bleeding, and obtain baseline vital signs.
In emergency situations, such as a motor vehicle accident where the patient has multiple traumatic injuries with severe bleeding, the transfusion of blood may be necessary even when there is no time to determine blood type. In such cases, O negative blood is often transfused because it is considered the universal donor type and is less likely to cause an adverse reaction in most patients.
Paramedics are trained to handle a wide range of medical crises and must always be prepared to take immediate action to save a life. The crucial initial steps they provide can mean the difference between life and death.