EFMB Medical Skills & Combat Medicine

Question 1

What is the primary function of the tourniquet in combat medicine?

Accepted Answer

To stop arterial blood flow and control severe bleeding

Answer

The primary function of a tourniquet in combat medicine is to rapidly and completely stop severe, life-threatening arterial and venous bleeding from a limb. When applied correctly and tightly, it occludes blood flow, preventing hemorrhagic shock and saving a casualty's life in situations where direct pressure is insufficient. This makes it a critical tool for immediate hemorrhage control in tactical environments.

Question 2

When should a combat medic apply a chest seal?

Accepted Answer

For gunshot or shrapnel wounds to the chest

Answer

A combat medic should apply a chest seal specifically for penetrating trauma to the chest, such as gunshot or shrapnel wounds, which can lead to an open pneumothorax. These wounds create an opening in the chest wall, allowing air to enter the pleural space and collapse the lung. A chest seal creates an airtight barrier, preventing further air entry and helping to restore normal lung function, which is critical for preventing tension pneumothorax.

Question 3

What is the primary goal of combat casualty care in the field?

Accepted Answer

To stabilize the patient for evacuation and further care

Answer

The primary goal of combat casualty care in the field is to provide immediate, life-saving interventions to stabilize the patient's condition. This stabilization focuses on addressing preventable causes of death, such as massive hemorrhage, airway obstruction, and tension pneumothorax, to prepare the casualty for safe evacuation. The aim is to bridge the gap until definitive medical care can be provided at a higher echelon of care.

Question 4

Which of the following is a common complication of untreated tension pneumothorax?

Accepted Answer

Decreased blood pressure and respiratory distress

Answer

Untreated tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening condition where air accumulates in the chest cavity, compressing the affected lung and shifting the mediastinum, which includes the heart and major blood vessels. This compression leads to decreased venous return to the heart, resulting in a rapid drop in blood pressure (hypotension) and severe respiratory distress as the healthy lung is also compromised. Prompt recognition and decompression are critical to prevent circulatory collapse and death.

Question 5

How should a combat medic manage an open abdominal wound?

Accepted Answer

Apply pressure and cover with a sterile dressing

Answer

When managing an open abdominal wound, a combat medic should apply pressure and cover the wound with a sterile, moist dressing. The goal is to protect exposed organs from contamination, prevent further evisceration, and maintain moisture. Unlike limb injuries, a tourniquet is not appropriate for abdominal wounds, and leaving it uncovered increases the risk of infection and further injury.

(EFMB) Expert Field Medical Badge Practice Test

(EFMB) Expert Field Medical Badge Practice Test

EFMB Medical Skills & Combat Medicine