Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

Which of the following would be a priority for a paramedic at the scene of a multi-casualty incident?

1. Providing detailed patient transport forms

2. Sourcing additional personnel for support

3. Inquiring about the patients’ pre-existing conditions

4. Establishing who requires immediate medical attention

The correct answer is: Establishing who requires immediate medical attention

In a multi-casualty incident, the primary focus for a paramedic is to quickly assess the situation and establish which patients require immediate medical attention. This process, often referred to as triage, is crucial because it enables the paramedic to prioritize treatment and transport for those who are in the most urgent need of care. Establishing immediate medical needs allows for effective allocation of resources, ensuring that critically injured patients receive prompt treatment and that more stable individuals are managed in a manner that does not compromise overall care. This decisiveness is vital in high-pressure situations, as it can significantly impact patient outcomes. Other considerations may be important, such as sourcing additional personnel or asking about patients’ medical history, but they come into play after immediate needs have been addressed. Detailed transport forms, while necessary for patient records, are secondary to ensuring that those who require urgent intervention are attended to first.