Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What should a paramedic avoid doing if a patient shows signs of potential head trauma?

1. Asking basic orientation questions

2. Transporting the patient on a stretcher

3. Removing any headwear immediately

4. Performing a thorough neurological assessment

The correct answer is: Removing any headwear immediately

When assessing a patient with potential head trauma, the priority is to minimize any actions that could worsen the injury or cause additional harm. Removing headwear immediately can be problematic, as it might inadvertently cause further movement of the cervical spine or head, possibly aggravating an existing injury. It is crucial to maintain stability and support for the head and neck during the assessment and transport. In scenarios involving head trauma, basic orientation questions are essential for evaluating the patient's level of consciousness and neurological status. Transporting the patient appropriately on a stretcher is standard practice to ensure safety and comfort. A thorough neurological assessment is vital to identify the extent of the injury and guide treatment decisions. Therefore, the immediate removal of headwear does not align with the best practices for managing a patient potentially suffering from head trauma.