NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamTraumaHard
A 25-year-old male was impaled through his chest by a metal rod during an industrial accident. The rod is approximately 2 feet long and still protruding from his chest. Your MOST appropriate action is to:
- AApply direct pressure to the entrance wound around the rod.
- BCarefully remove the rod to assess the wound.
- CCut the rod short to facilitate transport.
- DStabilize the rod in place with bulky dressings.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Stabilize the rod in place with bulky dressings.
Impaled objects should never be removed in the field unless they obstruct the airway or CPR. Removing the object can cause further internal damage and uncontrolled bleeding. Stabilizing it in place with bulky dressings minimizes movement and prevents further injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While bleeding control is important, applying direct pressure directly around the rod might push it further in or not effectively control bleeding from deep structures. Stabilization is the primary concern.
- B. Removing an impaled object can cause severe bleeding and additional internal trauma, and is contraindicated.
- C. Cutting an impaled object, especially in the chest, can cause vibration, movement, and potentially further internal damage, and may be dangerous without specialized equipment.
Impaled Object Management
The emergency care for an object that has penetrated the body and remains in place, focusing on stabilization and prevention of further injury.
- Do NOT remove the object unless it obstructs airway or CPR.
- Stabilize the object in place with bulky dressings.
- Control external bleeding around the object.
- Rapid transport to a medical facility.
Memory trick: Impaled: Don't Pull, Just Pad!