Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What aspect should a paramedic focus on first when managing a trauma patient?

1. Providing comfort and reassurance

2. Conducting a thorough medical history review

3. Assessing and securing airway, breathing, and circulation

4. Documenting the patient's injuries

The correct answer is: Assessing and securing airway, breathing, and circulation

When managing a trauma patient, the primary focus should be on assessing and securing airway, breathing, and circulation (often referred to as the ABCs of trauma). This is crucial because trauma can lead to life-threatening conditions that can rapidly deteriorate if not addressed immediately. In trauma situations, compromised airway, inadequate ventilation, or poor circulation are often the most urgent concerns that can lead to preventable morbidity and mortality. Prioritizing these aspects ensures that the most critical elements of patient care are established first. By securing the airway, the paramedic can prevent hypoxia and ensure that the patient can breathe adequately. Maintaining circulation helps to ensure that vital organs are receiving the oxygenated blood they need to function. While comforting the patient, gathering medical history, and documenting injuries are important steps in overall patient care, they do not take precedence over stabilization of these vital functions. Addressing airway, breathing, and circulation first not only aligns with the principles of trauma care but also stabilizes the patient for subsequent interventions and assessments.