OEC Environmental Emergencies & Rescue Techniques 3

Question 1

A cold-water drowning victim is pulseless and apneic after 20 minutes of submersion. The OEC technician should:

Accepted Answer

Begin CPR and treat for hypothermia, transporting immediately

Answer

Cold-water drowning victims can survive prolonged submersion due to the diving reflex and hypothermia's protective effect; resuscitation should begin and continue during transport.

Question 2

Which of the following is the hallmark early sign of heat stroke, distinguishing it from heat exhaustion?

Accepted Answer

Altered mental status

Answer

Altered mental status (confusion, disorientation, or unconsciousness) is the defining feature of heat stroke and indicates CNS dysfunction.

Question 3

When packaging a patient for a toboggan evacuation on a ski slope, the patient's feet should be positioned:

Accepted Answer

Downhill so the patroller can monitor the airway

Answer

Feet-downhill positioning allows the patroller pushing the toboggan to monitor the patient's face and airway during descent.

Question 4

A climber descends rapidly from 14,000 feet to base camp complaining of severe headache and ataxia. Fundoscopic exam would most likely reveal:

Accepted Answer

Papilledema from increased intracranial pressure

Answer

High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) causes increased intracranial pressure, which may produce papilledema on fundoscopic examination.

Question 5

During rope rescue operations, the load-to-haul ratio for a 3:1 mechanical advantage system theoretically reduces the input force required by:

Accepted Answer

One-third

Answer

A 3:1 mechanical advantage system means only one-third of the load weight is needed as input force, ignoring friction losses.

(OEC) Outdoor Emergency Care Certification Practice Test

(OEC) Outdoor Emergency Care Certification Practice Test

OEC Environmental Emergencies & Rescue Techniques 3