PHTLS Scene Assessment and Safety 3

Question 1

At a mass casualty incident with 15 patients from a bus crash, which resource request should be made first?

Accepted Answer

Establish command, declare an MCI, and request additional resources early

Answer

Early declaration of an MCI and immediate resource requests prevent delays that worsen outcomes in mass casualty events.

Question 2

A provider notes a strong smell of natural gas upon entering a residential structure. What is the immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Evacuate all occupants and call the gas utility from outside

Answer

Natural gas creates an explosive atmosphere; immediate evacuation and external notification are required before any other action.

Question 3

Which factor most commonly causes EMS providers to overlook scene hazards?

Accepted Answer

Tunnel vision focused on the patient rather than the environment

Answer

Tunnel vision — focusing entirely on the patient — is the most common cause of missed scene hazards in EMS.

Question 4

During a farm accident, a patient is trapped under agricultural equipment with a running diesel engine nearby. What hazard requires immediate attention?

Accepted Answer

Carbon monoxide accumulation in a low-lying area

Answer

Diesel engines in enclosed or low-lying areas produce carbon monoxide that accumulates rapidly and can incapacitate rescuers and patients.

Question 5

A provider receives a dispatch for a 'man down' in an alley. Which approach is safest?

Accepted Answer

Approach on foot from a parallel street for initial scene observation

Answer

Approaching from an observation angle before committing allows providers to assess scene safety without placing themselves in a potentially dangerous position.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS Scene Assessment and Safety 3