CPR Trauma Management & Intervention 3

Question 1

A paramedic suspects cardiac tamponade following a stab wound to the chest. Which triad of findings supports this diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and jugular venous distension (Beck's triad)

Answer

Beck's triad — hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and JVD — classically indicates cardiac tamponade caused by blood accumulation in the pericardial sac.

Question 2

When performing a needle thoracostomy for tension pneumothorax, the traditional landmark on a male adult is:

Accepted Answer

2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line, above the 3rd rib

Answer

The classic landmark is the 2nd ICS at the midclavicular line, inserting just above the 3rd rib to avoid the neurovascular bundle running below each rib.

Question 3

A trauma patient has a GCS of 8 and active facial bleeding. After cervical spine precautions, what is the priority airway intervention?

Accepted Answer

Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) with in-line stabilization

Answer

GCS ≤8 with active airway compromise requires definitive airway management; RSI with manual in-line stabilization allows intubation while protecting the cervical spine.

Question 4

Which burn pattern is most consistent with non-accidental trauma (abuse) in a pediatric patient?

Accepted Answer

Symmetrical scald burns with a distinct tide line on bilateral lower extremities

Answer

Forcible immersion scalds produce symmetrical, sharply demarcated burns with a tide line, inconsistent with accidental splash injuries, and are a hallmark of inflicted burns.

Question 5

A patient sustained blunt abdominal trauma and now has referred pain to the left shoulder while supine. This finding most suggests:

Accepted Answer

Splenic laceration causing diaphragmatic irritation (Kehr's sign)

Answer

Kehr's sign is left shoulder pain caused by blood irritating the left hemidiaphragm from splenic injury, mediated by the phrenic nerve (C3-C5).

(CPR) Certified Paramedic Response Practice Test

(CPR) Certified Paramedic Response Practice Test

CPR Trauma Management & Intervention 3