Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action if a patient in cardiac arrest has a terminal illness and cannot provide an advance directive?

1. Wait for family to locate the advance directive

2. Begin CPR and contact medical control

3. Respect their wishes and do not resuscitate

4. Perform limited intervention until assistance arrives

The correct answer is: Begin CPR and contact medical control

In situations involving a patient in cardiac arrest who has a terminal illness and cannot provide an advance directive, the most appropriate action is to begin CPR and contact medical control. This approach prioritizes the immediate need for resuscitation efforts, ensuring that the patient receives timely care, which is critical in cardiac arrest scenarios. Initiating CPR is a vital component of advanced life support protocols, as it helps maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until further medical interventions can be applied. Contacting medical control is essential for guidance on the appropriate course of action, particularly to discuss the patient’s medical history, their terminal condition, and potential specific protocols that may apply in this scenario. It is important to emphasize that, while respecting a patient’s wishes is crucial in healthcare, without an advance directive that explicitly states the desire not to resuscitate, healthcare providers typically default to performing life-saving measures in emergencies. Therefore, taking action to initiate CPR and seek direction from medical control aligns with both ethical standards and the protocols established for emergency medical services.