Question

on scene, a paramedic directs you to help another ems crew with a patient who was hit by a passenger van that ran into a crowd. as you approach the patient, what scene size-up clue seemingly indicates that the patient is suffering from traumatic asphyxia?

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

In a scenario where a patient has been hit by a passenger van that ran into a crowd, if the patient is showing signs of traumatic asphyxia, one potential scene size-up clue that might indicate this condition is the presence of petechiae or subconjunctival hemorrhages.

Traumatic asphyxia occurs when there is sudden and severe compression of the chest, leading to a rapid increase in pressure within the thoracic cavity. This can result in a disruption of blood flow and oxygenation, leading to a lack of oxygen reaching the brain and other vital organs.

One characteristic sign of traumatic asphyxia is the appearance of petechiae or subconjunctival hemorrhages. Petechiae are small, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots that occur when tiny blood vessels called capillaries burst due to increased pressure. Subconjunctival hemorrhages refer to the presence of blood in the white part of the eye (sclera).