FREE Paramedics Exam Major Incident Response Question and Answers
Where are more resources positioned until they are required on the scene?
In the Incident Command System (ICS), a staging area is a designated location where additional personnel, equipment, and resources are gathered and held in readiness until they are assigned specific tasks and roles by the Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief. The staging area is strategically located away from the immediate incident scene but close enough to be readily available when called upon.
Which zone does the extrication sector operate in?
The Hazard Zone, also known as the Hot Zone or Danger Zone, is the area closest to the source of the incident where the most significant hazards exist. In emergency response situations, such as vehicle accidents or collapsed structures, the extrication sector is responsible for freeing trapped individuals. Since these incidents often involve potential hazards, such as structural instability, sharp objects, or the risk of fire, the extrication sector operates within the Hazard Zone.
What kind of situation results in a high demand on local and regional EMS and rescue services?
A disaster is an event or incident that causes significant disruption, destruction, and loss of life, property, and infrastructure. It exceeds the capabilities of the affected community to respond effectively, and as a result, overwhelms the local emergency services and resources.
When using the START method, how long should a triage assessment last at the most?
When utilizing the START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) method, a triage assessment should take a maximum of 60 seconds. The START triage system is designed to quickly assess and prioritize patients during mass casualty incidents or disasters. It focuses on rapidly identifying those with life-threatening injuries who require immediate treatment and transportation to medical facilities. The goal is to efficiently sort and prioritize patients based on their immediate medical needs and the available resources.
When the incident commander arrives on the scene, what should they do first?
When the Incident Commander arrives at the scene, they should promptly assume command and establish themselves in a suitable command position. This involves taking charge of the incident response and asserting their authority over all personnel and resources involved. Assuming command allows the Incident Commander to effectively manage the incident and direct the response efforts.
How many people get overall command responsibility in the Incident Command System?
In the Incident Command System (ICS), overall command responsibility is typically assigned to one person. This individual is known as the "Incident Commander."
How should the radio conversations sound between the sector officer of Transport and the incident commander?
"Command to Transport Sector" is the appropriate radio communication to establish contact between the Incident Commander and the sector officer responsible for transport operations. This clear and concise format identifies the sender ("Command") and specifically addresses the intended recipient ("Transport Sector"). This type of communication ensures effective coordination and facilitates clear instructions and information exchange between the Incident Commander and the transport sector.
When should the incident command system be used to maintain practicing after how many units have been assigned to an incident?
The Incident Command System (ICS) is generally recommended to be implemented when three or more units are assigned to an incident. This threshold helps ensure that a sufficient number of resources and personnel are involved in the response, making it appropriate to establish a formal incident management structure.
Which of the following is a important  tool for the Incident Commander or any sector officer?
While technology has introduced digital tools and communication systems in incident management, a clipboard with pencils and paper remains a reliable and essential tool in emergency situations. It ensures that information is readily accessible, even in areas where electronic devices might not be feasible or have limited connectivity. Additionally, having hard copies of crucial data can serve as backups in case of technological failures.
What kind of management must the sector officer employ?
In the ICS, the sector officer's management approach should be "Cooperative." The sector officer is responsible for overseeing operations within a specific geographic or functional area of the incident and plays a critical role in managing resources and personnel in that sector.
Which sector is in charge of acquiring and delivering essential medical supplies after a major incident?
In the Incident Command System (ICS), the Medical/Treatment Sector is established to manage and coordinate all medical operations at the incident scene. This sector is responsible for providing medical care and treatment to the injured and affected individuals.
What respiratory rate cutoff determines whether a patient is considered critical?
A respiration rate of 30 or more breaths per minute can be considered a critical threshold in certain situations, especially in adults. However, it's essential to note that classifying a patient as "critical" based solely on one parameter, such as the respiration rate, may not be sufficient. The patient's overall clinical condition, including other vital signs, level of consciousness, and underlying medical conditions, should also be taken into account.
What minimal systolic blood pressure (mmHg) can the patient be assumed to have if a radial pulse is felt?
The radial pulse is one of the peripheral pulses that can be assessed by feeling the pulse on the wrist's radial artery. The presence of a palpable radial pulse suggests that the systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure exerted on the arterial walls during the heart's contraction, is at least around 80 mmHg or higher.
Who does the paramedic report to after being placed in a sector?
In the Incident Command System (ICS), a sector is a geographical or functional area of the incident that is assigned to a specific supervisor called the "Sector Officer." The Sector Officer is responsible for managing all resources, personnel, and operations within their designated sector.
How should the majority of communications between the paramedics and the sector officer be conducted?
In an incident management setting, face-to-face communication is often considered the most effective and reliable method, especially when dealing with critical or time-sensitive information. Direct, in-person communication allows for immediate feedback, clarification, and the ability to observe non-verbal cues, which can be crucial in high-stress situations.
In regard to the scene of the incident, where should the command post be placed?
The command post in relation to the incident scene should be located "Upwind and uphill." In the Incident Command System (ICS), the command post is the central location where the Incident Commander and their incident management team operate to oversee and coordinate the response to the incident. The location of the command post is crucial for maintaining situational awareness, effective communication, and safety.