Question

Which of the following methods should the EMT use first to attempt to access a patient in a vehicle while awaiting arrival of a rescue crew?

A. Use a pry-bar to release the Nader pin in the door latch.
B. Use a spring-loaded punch to break the rear window.
C. Try all of the vehicle's doors to see if they will open.
D. Use a heavy tool to break the window closest to the patient.

Answer 1

The EMT should first try all of the vehicle's doors to see if they will open, as this method is the least invasive and reduces the risk of further injury to the patient or damage to the vehicle.

Step-by-step explanation:

In an emergency situation where a patient is trapped in a vehicle and a rescue crew has not yet arrived, the first method an EMT should use to attempt to access the patient is the least invasive one possible. The primary concern should be to avoid causing further injury to the patient or unnecessary damage to the vehicle.

The correct approach would be to first try all of the vehicle's doors to see if they will open. This could allow the EMT to gain access to the patient without the need for tools or breaking windows, both of which could potentially harm the patient or the responder. The final answer, therefore, in a two-line explanation in 300 words would be to choose the option that provides the safest and quickest access to the patient while minimizing risks and potential harm.

It is essential to note that the other options, such as using a pry-bar or breaking windows, should only be considered if all doors are inoperable and there is an immediate need to reach the patient due to a life-threatening condition.