EMT Chapter 12: Scene Size-Up Flashcards

These flashcards cover the essential concepts of scene size-up, including safety priorities, mechanism of injury, nature of illness, PPE requirements, and crime scene protocols based on Chapter 12 materials.

What are the three basic goals of the scene size-up?

1. Identify hazards and ensure scene safety; 2. Identify the nature of the problem (mechanism of injury and/or nature of illness); 3. Determine whether additional resources are required.

When should the scene size-up take place?

At the beginning and throughout the entire call.

Which three categories of people must the EMT be concerned with to ensure scene safety?

Self and other team members (crew), patients, and bystanders.

What are the typical components of Standard Precautions?

Gloves, eyewear, and mask.

When is it appropriate for EMTs to enter a known crime scene?

Not until the scene has been secured by police.

What action should be taken regarding lights and sirens when responding to a known crime scene?

Turn off the siren and emergency lights several blocks before arrival.

Which PPE is most appropriate for an EMT entering a confined space?

SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus).

In addition to height, what factor should be determined when assessing potential injuries from a fall?

The surface on which the patient landed.

Why is it critical to determine the number of patients early in a multiple-vehicle crash?

Because on-scene resources may be inadequate.

What are the four significant external signs of vehicle impact that should be documented?

1. Deformity to the vehicle greater than $20$ inches; 2. Intrusion into the passenger compartment; 3. Displacement of a vehicle axle; 4. Rollover.

What term refers to the forces that may have caused injury to a patient?

Mechanism of injury (MOI).

What is the 'index of suspicion'?

An anticipation that certain types of mechanisms will produce specific types of injuries.

In which three scenarios should an EMT suspect hazardous materials or oxygen-depleted environments?

Spills, leaks, or confined spaces.

What is the term for identifying what is wrong with a medical patient?

Nature of illness (NOI).

Where should the emergency vehicle be positioned at a crime scene where guns might be involved?

Outside the killing zone.

According to the transcript, where should a unit be parked if power lines are down and fuel is spilled?

Away from the wreck, upwind if possible, and at least one full span of wires from power poles to which broken wires are attached.

What should be used to mark a danger zone containing spilled fuel instead of flares?

Reflective triangles.

List five ways to reduce a patient's anxiety at an emergency scene.

Bring order to the environment, introduce yourself, gain patient consent, position yourself properly, use communication skills, be courteous, or use touch when appropriate.

What are three potential sources of information regarding a patient's nature of illness?

The patient, family members or bystanders, and physical evidence at the scene.