Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What should you do if you note injuries on a patient that are inconsistent with the described mechanism of injury?

1. Transport the patient and document findings

2. Transport the patient and report your suspicions

3. Provide immediate treatment and reassess

4. Refuse transport until confirmed by a physician

The correct answer is: Transport the patient and report your suspicions

When you observe injuries on a patient that do not match the described mechanism of injury, it raises concerns that there may be additional information that the patient isn't sharing or that something more serious has occurred. Reporting your suspicions is vital for several reasons. First, it allows for appropriate assessment and potential intervention at the receiving facility. Healthcare professionals there can prioritize further evaluations, such as imaging studies or consultations with specialists, based on your report of the clinical findings. Second, your suspicion of discrepancies between the injury and mechanism can indicate potential issues like abuse, neglect, or factors that may not have been initially disclosed by the patient. By sharing this information, you enable the healthcare team to approach the case with a comprehensive understanding of the patient's situation and needs, which is crucial for ensuring their safety and appropriate care. Transporting the patient and documenting findings is an important part of patient care, but on its own, it does not convey the necessary urgency or context regarding the concern about the injuries. Immediate treatment and reassessment are part of the standard care but might not address the implications of your findings. Refusing transport until confirmed by a physician is not appropriate, as the patient still requires care and evaluation by medical professionals. Therefore, the best course of action is to transport