Question

When determining possible injuries suffered from a gunshot wound, which of the following is true?

A. The EMT must ask the patient or bystanders exactly where the shooter was standing.
B. Bullets pass in a straight line through the body from the point of entry to the exit wound.
C. The EMT must be aware that bullets cause damage in more than one way.
D. The EMT must determine the caliber of ammunition involved.

Answer 1

The EMT must be aware that bullets cause damage in more than one way when assessing gunshot wounds, as their path through the body can be unpredictable and cause various types of tissue damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

When determining possible injuries suffered from a gunshot wound, the most accurate statement is that the EMT must be aware that bullets cause damage in more than one way. It is a misconception that bullets pass in a straight line through the body from the point of entry to the exit wound; in reality, the path can be unpredictable due to interactions with bone, tissue, and other variables. The initial velocity and trajectory of the bullet, as well as its interaction with the body's structures, can cause a complex mix of damage including tearing, shock waves, and cavitation. Knowledge of the shooter's position or the caliber of ammunition can be useful but are often not immediately relevant to the emergency care provided by the EMT. Immediate concern will focus on stabilizing the patient, managing bleeding, and preventing further injury.