Red Cross Instructor Emergency Response & Rescue Techniques Flashcards

When performing a water rescue, what is the preferred first action an instructor should teach before entering the water?

Answer: Reach or throw a rescue device from safety

The 'reach, throw, don't go' principle keeps the rescuer safe by using a pole, rope, or flotation device before entering the water.

An instructor is teaching spinal injury management in water. Which technique is used to keep a suspected spinal victim's head stabilized?

Answer: Head-splint technique

The head-splint technique uses the victim's arms to brace the head and neck in a neutral inline position in the water.

During a land-based rescue training session, a student asks when it is appropriate to use a throwing rescue device. What is the correct answer?

Answer: When the victim is conscious and can grasp the device

A throwing rescue device such as a throw bag is most effective when the victim is conscious and able to hold on to it.

Which of the following best describes the role of an RCI-certified instructor during a mass casualty incident (MCI)?

Answer: Triage victims and provide basic life-saving care until EMS arrives

Instructors trained in emergency response assist by triaging and providing BLS-level care until advanced medical personnel arrive.

A lifeguard student is struggling to maintain proper body position during a rear approach rescue. What correction should the instructor prioritize?

Answer: Coach the student to keep arms extended and avoid grabbing the victim from the front

A rear approach prevents the panicking victim from grabbing the rescuer and pulling them under the water.

In Red Cross emergency response training, what does START triage stand for?

Answer: Simple Triage And Rapid Treatment

START (Simple Triage And Rapid Treatment) is the widely used triage system for sorting multiple victims by severity in under 60 seconds each.

When teaching students to use an AED on a victim who has fallen into water, what must be done first?

Answer: Dry the victim's chest before applying the AED pads

The victim must be removed from the water and the chest must be dried to ensure good pad contact and to prevent electrical current from spreading across a wet surface.