Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which condition presents the greatest challenge in controlling external bleeding?

1. Profusely bleeding laceration on the scalp

2. Lacerated femoral vein with BP of 88/60 mm Hg

3. Minor abrasion on the forearm

4. A small puncture wound on the leg

The correct answer is: Lacerated femoral vein with BP of 88/60 mm Hg

The scenario involving a lacerated femoral vein with a blood pressure of 88/60 mm Hg presents the greatest challenge in controlling external bleeding. The femoral vein is a major vessel in the body that carries a significant volume of blood from the lower extremities back to the heart. When this vein is lacerated, there is a high risk for rapid and significant blood loss due to the large caliber and pressure of blood flowing through it. The low blood pressure of 88/60 mm Hg indicates that the patient may be experiencing hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition resulting from substantial blood loss. This makes it critical to manage the bleeding effectively and promptly because even a few more minutes without adequate intervention could lead to irreversible complications, including death. In contrast, the other scenarios, such as a profusely bleeding laceration on the scalp, while also concerning, typically involve slower bleeding and can often be managed more easily due to the access to the site and the ability to apply direct pressure. Minor abrasions or small puncture wounds generally do not pose a life-threatening risk and can be controlled with basic first aid, making them less challenging in comparison to a major vessel laceration necessitating more advanced medical intervention.