Technology & Digital Tools Flashcards
7 cards from real OEC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Technology & Digital Tools flashcards as text
Which satellite communication device sends a distress signal with GPS coordinates to NOSAR/COSPAS via dedicated emergency satellites?
Answer: Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
PLBs transmit a dedicated 406 MHz distress signal to COSPAS-SARSAT satellites, providing GPS coordinates to search and rescue authorities.
When using a GPS device for navigation in avalanche terrain, which additional digital tool is most critical for OEC providers?
Answer: An avalanche transceiver (beacon)
An avalanche transceiver (beacon) allows searchers to locate buried victims via 457 kHz signal, making it essential alongside GPS in avalanche terrain.
In the RECCO system used by ski patrol, what technology does the passive reflector use to assist in victim location?
Answer: Radar harmonic detection
RECCO reflectors use passive harmonic radar technology — they return a doubled-frequency radar signal to the detector, revealing the victim's location.
An OEC technician uses a pulse oximeter in a high-altitude environment. Which physiological effect of altitude most directly invalidates peripheral SpO2 readings?
Answer: Peripheral vasoconstriction reducing perfusion
Cold-induced peripheral vasoconstriction reduces blood flow to fingertips, causing poor signal quality and inaccurate pulse oximeter readings.
Which app feature is most useful for an OEC provider coordinating a backcountry rescue with no cell service?
Answer: Offline downloadable topographic maps
Offline topographic maps (e.g., Gaia GPS, CalTopo) allow navigation and location sharing without cellular connectivity during backcountry rescues.
When an OEC provider uses a two-way satellite messenger to request evacuation, which information is most critical to include in the initial message?
Answer: GPS coordinates, number of patients, and chief complaint
GPS coordinates, patient count, and chief complaint give responders the location and situational awareness needed to dispatch appropriate resources.
A digital wound documentation app is used by patrol. What is the primary advantage of photographing injuries with a timestamp at initial assessment?
Answer: It provides objective baseline documentation for tracking wound progression
Timestamped wound photos create an objective baseline that allows care providers to assess whether a wound is improving or deteriorating over time.
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Sources & references
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- nsp.org — Score validity, test delivery, eligibility, fees, passing score, renewal · verified Oct 2026