Master the PHTLS Practice Test 2026

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide

The PHTLS (Prehospital Trauma Life Support) certification is the gold standard in trauma care education. Recognized worldwide, the NAEMT PHTLS course teaches EMS practitioners critical thinking skills to provide life-saving care to trauma patients in the field.

Our free PHTLS practice test helps you prepare for the PHTLS course final exam. Whether you are taking a PHTLS class for the first time or renewing your Prehospital Trauma Life Support certification, our study materials cover essential topics like airway management, shock, and casualty simulation.

⏱️

16h

Course Length

📝

Questions

✅

76%

Pass Score

💵

$250

Avg. Cost

The PHTLS meaning goes beyond a simple acronym; it represents a commitment to excellence in trauma care. The Prehospital Trauma Life Support course integrates the latest evidence-based medical knowledge, including the XABCDE assessment approach, to improve patient outcomes in emergency situations.

PHTLS Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

PHTLS 7th Edition

PHTLS Exam Questions covering 7th Edition. Master PHTLS Test concepts for certification prep.

PHTLS Knowledge

Free PHTLS Practice Test featuring Knowledge. Improve your PHTLS Exam score with mock test prep.

PHTLS Pre & Post

PHTLS Mock Exam on Pre & Post. PHTLS Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

PHTLS Kinematics of Trauma

PHTLS Test Prep for Kinematics of Trauma. Practice PHTLS Quiz questions and boost your score.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Bu...

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PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Sh...

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FREE PHTLS PRACTICE TEST

PHTLS Flashcards

Key concepts for the Prehospital Trauma Life Support Course

📚 🌬️What is the preferred method for opening the airway in a trauma patient?

The jaw-thrust maneuver is preferred to protect the cervical spine while opening the airway.

🎯 🩸What is the first step in controlling life-threatening hemorrhage?

Apply direct pressure or a tourniquet immediately if direct pressure is insufficient or impractical.

💡 🧠What GCS score indicates severe traumatic brain injury?

A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8 or less indicates severe traumatic brain injury.

🔑 🦴What is the primary goal of spinal motion restriction?

To prevent further injury to the spinal cord by minimizing movement of the spinal column.

📝 💓What are the classic signs of tension pneumothorax?

Distended neck veins, tracheal deviation, absent breath sounds, and hypotension (shock).

⭐ 💉What is the target systolic blood pressure for permissive hypotension?

Typically 80-90 mmHg, enough to maintain perfusion without dislodging clots (unless TBI is present).

PHTLS EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

PHTLS Exam Study Guide

Our PHTLS study guide breaks down the NAEMT PHTLS course into manageable sections. Review these common questions to understand the PHTLS certification process and exam expectations.

📘 PHTLS Basics

What is the PHTLS certification?: PHTLS certification validates an EMS provider's ability to assess and manage trauma patients. It emphasizes the "treat as you go" philosophy and critical thinking.
Who needs to take the PHTLS course?: The NAEMT PHTLS course is designed for EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, and physicians involved in prehospital trauma care.
Does PHTLS provide CE credits?: Yes, completing the PHTLS class typically awards 16 hours of CAPCE-accredited continuing education credits for EMS license renewal.
What is the difference between ITLS and PHTLS?: While both ITLS PHTLS cover trauma, PHTLS focuses more on critical thinking and physiology, whereas ITLS is often more algorithm-driven.

📄 PHTLS Format

How many questions are on the PHTLS exam?: The PHTLS test typically consists of 50 multiple-choice questions administered at the end of the course.
Is there a practical component to the PHTLS course?: Yes, the PHTLS course includes mandatory skill stations and scenario-based assessments where you must demonstrate trauma management competency.
Is the PHTLS test open book?: Generally, the PHTLS final exam is closed book, requiring you to recall knowledge from the PHTLS textbook and course lectures.
How long is the PHTLS class?: The traditional PHTLS course is a 16-hour, two-day program. A PHTLS hybrid course option allows for online study followed by one day of skills.

📝 PHTLS Registration

How do I register for a PHTLS class?: You can find a PHTLS course near me by visiting the NAEMT website course locator or checking with local EMS training centers.
Can I take the PHTLS course online?: You can take the PHTLS course online via the hybrid format, but you must still attend an in-person session for skills verification.
What are the prerequisites for PHTLS?: There are no strict prerequisites, but a background as an EMT, paramedic, or healthcare provider is strongly recommended for the PHTLS certification.
How much does the PHTLS course cost?: The PHTLS cost varies by training center but typically ranges from $200 to $350, often including the PHTLS book.

📊 PHTLS Results

What is the passing score for PHTLS?: To pass the PHTLS exam, you typically need a score of 76% or higher on the written test and a "Pass" on the skills evaluation.
When do I get my PHTLS card?: Upon successful completion, your PHTLS certification card is usually issued immediately or within a few days via the NAEMT portal.
How long is PHTLS certification good for?: The PHTLS certification is valid for four years from the date of issue, after which you must take a refresher course.
Can I retake the PHTLS test if I fail?: Yes, most training centers allow one retake of the PHTLS written exam immediately or within a short timeframe.

💵 PHTLS Salary

Does PHTLS increase paramedic salary?: Holding a PHTLS certification can make you more competitive for higher-paying roles, critical care transport, or flight medic positions.
Is PHTLS required for flight medics?: Yes, most air medical services require PHTLS certification or an equivalent trauma course for flight paramedics and nurses.
What jobs require PHTLS?: Jobs requiring PHTLS include critical care paramedics, flight medics, tactical EMS, and emergency department nurses in trauma centers.
Is PHTLS worth it for EMTs?: Yes, PHTLS for EMT providers enhances trauma assessment skills and is often a requirement for career advancement or paramedic school.

START PHTLS REVIEWER QUIZ

PHTLS Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

Estimated score calculation

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct ✓ PASS

Expect to invest between $300 and $400 total for your PHTLS certification, including the PHTLS course fee and textbook. Employers often reimburse these costs.

PHTLS CERTIFICATION PRACTICE TEST PHTLS TEST QUESTIONS

PHTLS Test Day Checklist

PHTLS Textbook

Notebook & Pen

Comfortable Clothes

Stethoscope

Photo ID

Lunch/Snacks

Pre-Test Score

Positive Attitude

Ace Your PHTLS Exam

Get ready for your PHTLS course with our free practice tools. Whether you need a refresher or full exam prep, we have you covered.

PHTLS Renewal Requirements

The PHTLS certification must be renewed every four years to maintain active status. Here is what you need to know about the PHTLS renewal process.

📅

Validity

4 Years

📝

CE Credits

16 Hours

To renew, you can take a 1-day PHTLS refresher course or the 8-hour PHTLS for First Responders course, depending on your level of licensure.

Pros

Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
Increases job market competitiveness
Provides structured learning goals
Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

Cons

Study materials can be expensive
Exam anxiety can affect performance
Requires dedicated preparation time
Retake fees apply if you don't pass

PHTLS Questions and Answers

What is the passing score for the PHTLS exam?

The PHTLS written exam requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. The exam is administered as a closed-book, multiple-choice test at the end of the PHTLS course. Students who do not pass on the first attempt are typically given one opportunity to retake the exam during the same course offering, though policies may vary by training center.

What is the format of the PHTLS exam?

The PHTLS exam consists of a written multiple-choice test combined with practical skills stations. The written portion includes scenario-based questions that assess clinical decision-making in prehospital trauma situations. Practical stations evaluate hands-on skills such as spinal motion restriction, hemorrhage control, and rapid trauma assessment. Both components must be completed successfully to earn certification.

Who is eligible to take the PHTLS course and exam?

PHTLS is open to EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physicians, and other licensed or certified prehospital care providers. Military medics and combat lifesavers also frequently attend. There is no prerequisite certification beyond holding a current healthcare or EMS credential. Some training centers also offer PHTLS to medical students and other allied health professionals involved in emergency care.

How do I register for a PHTLS course?

Registration for PHTLS courses is handled through local training centers authorized by the National Association of EMTs. Visit the NAEMT website at naemt.org to search for upcoming course offerings by location and date. Course fees typically range from $200 to $400 depending on the provider and region. Registration usually includes the PHTLS textbook and course materials.

How long is the PHTLS course?

The standard PHTLS provider course runs 16 hours over two days. Day one typically covers didactic content including pathophysiology of trauma, airway management, and shock assessment. Day two focuses on practical skills stations and scenario-based testing. A condensed refresher course for recertification is available as an 8-hour, single-day program for providers with current or recently expired PHTLS certification.

Is the PHTLS textbook required for the exam?

Yes, the PHTLS textbook is the primary study resource and is considered essential for exam preparation. The current edition covers all tested content areas including kinematics of trauma, hemorrhage control, and patient assessment algorithms. Most course registrations include the textbook in the fee. The book uses case-based scenarios that mirror the style of questions found on the written exam.

What is the difference between PHTLS and ITLS?

PHTLS and ITLS (International Trauma Life Support) are both prehospital trauma education programs with similar goals but different organizations and approaches. PHTLS is administered by NAEMT in cooperation with the American College of Surgeons, while ITLS operates independently. PHTLS emphasizes the XABCDE assessment framework, whereas ITLS uses a slightly different assessment sequence. Both certifications are widely recognized by EMS agencies.

Can PHTLS certification help advance my EMS career?

PHTLS certification is highly valued across the EMS profession and is required or preferred by many fire departments, ambulance services, and air medical programs. It demonstrates advanced trauma assessment competency beyond standard EMT or paramedic training. Many tactical EMS teams and critical care transport services list PHTLS as a hiring requirement. The certification also strengthens applications for flight paramedic and supervisory positions.

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