PHTLS Spinal Trauma Management 5

Question 1

According to PHTLS, spinal motion restriction is generally NOT indicated for which patient with a penetrating spinal injury?

Accepted Answer

Gunshot wound to the thorax without neurologic signs or symptoms

Answer

PHTLS does not recommend SMR for penetrating trauma without neurologic signs, as the device provides no benefit and delays transport to definitive care.

Question 2

An elderly patient is found after a ground-level fall with midline cervical tenderness. Her only other complaint is mild wrist pain. What is the correct SMR decision?

Accepted Answer

Apply SMR because midline tenderness is present regardless of mechanism

Answer

Midline spinal tenderness is an absolute indication for SMR regardless of mechanism, as it suggests possible spinal column injury.

Question 3

Which of the following BEST describes 'spinal shock' in the PHTLS context?

Accepted Answer

Temporary complete loss of all spinal cord function below the injury level

Answer

Spinal shock is a temporary physiologic state of complete flaccid paralysis and loss of reflexes below the injury level, which may mask the true degree of permanent injury.

Question 4

During a log-roll of a trauma patient, which team member is responsible for directing the movement?

Accepted Answer

The rescuer maintaining in-line stabilization of the head

Answer

The rescuer maintaining in-line head stabilization directs the log-roll to ensure the head, trunk, and pelvis move as a single unit.

Question 5

A patient with C5 spinal cord injury most likely retains which function?

Accepted Answer

Diaphragmatic breathing and shoulder shrug

Answer

C5 innervates the diaphragm (phrenic nerve C3-C5) and deltoid/shoulder muscles, so patients typically retain diaphragmatic breathing and limited shoulder movement.

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS - Prehospital Trauma Life Support Practice Test

PHTLS Spinal Trauma Management 5