UK PCV Theory Emergency and First Aid Questions and Answers Flashcards

You are the first to arrive at the scene of a road traffic collision. A passenger is unconscious but appears to be breathing normally. What is the first step you should take according to the DR ABC first aid procedure?

Answer: Check for any dangers to yourself, the casualty, and others.

The primary survey in first aid follows the DR ABC (or DRSABC) protocol. The very first step is 'Danger'. Before approaching a casualty, you must assess the situation for any potential dangers to yourself, bystanders, or the casualty to avoid creating more victims.

A passenger on your bus has a severe bleeding wound on their arm. There is an object embedded in the wound. What is the correct course of action?

Answer: Apply pressure to the wound, but away from the embedded object.

If an object is embedded in a wound, it should not be removed as it may be acting as a plug and preventing further blood loss. Pressure should be applied firmly on either side of the object to help control the bleeding without pushing the object further in.

You have been involved in a minor collision in your bus. No one is injured, but the other driver's car has sustained damage. You have exchanged details with the other driver. By law, what must you do?

Answer: Inform your insurance company as soon as is reasonably practical.

Even if no one is injured, you must report any collision to your insurance company. If details are exchanged and there are no injuries, reporting to the police isn't always legally required, but you must inform your insurer. The DVSA only needs to be informed of incidents involving fatalities, serious injuries, or serious damage.

While assessing an unresponsive casualty at an incident, you find they are not breathing normally. After calling 999, what is the next immediate action you should take?

Answer: Commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

For an adult casualty who is unresponsive and not breathing normally, the correct procedure after calling for emergency help is to start CPR immediately. Chest compressions are vital to maintain circulation until professional help arrives.

A passenger appears pale, feels cold and clammy, and is breathing rapidly after a fall on your bus. Which condition are they most likely suffering from?

Answer: Shock

The signs described – pale, cold, clammy skin and rapid, shallow breathing – are classic symptoms of shock. Shock is a life-threatening condition caused by a lack of circulating blood and requires immediate medical attention.

Which of the following is the most appropriate type of fire extinguisher to be carried on a PCV for general risks, according to UK standards?

Answer: AFFF Foam (Cream label)

While Dry Powder extinguishers are versatile, AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) extinguishers are widely recommended and used for public transport vehicles like buses and coaches in the UK. They are effective on Class A (solids like upholstery) and Class B (flammable liquids like fuel) fires, which are the most common risks. UK regulations require PCVs to carry at least one portable fire extinguisher.