Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

During a mass casualty incident involving a tour bus accident, which patient receives 'immediate' triage status?

1. A young female with bilateral femur fractures

2. An older woman with abdominal pain

3. A middle-aged male with respiratory distress and chest pain

4. An unresponsive patient with a weak carotid pulse

The correct answer is: A middle-aged male with respiratory distress and chest pain

The classification of triage statuses during a mass casualty incident is pivotal in ensuring that those who need immediate medical intervention receive it without delay. In this scenario, the middle-aged male with respiratory distress and chest pain is assigned 'immediate' triage status for several important reasons. Respiratory distress and chest pain are indicators of potentially life-threatening conditions, such as a cardiac event or severe respiratory compromise. These issues can rapidly deteriorate if not addressed quickly, leading to respiratory failure or cardiac arrest, both of which present significant threats to survival. Providing immediate care to this patient is essential to stabilize his condition and prevent further complications. In contrast, while the other patients also require medical attention, their conditions are less critical from a triage perspective. The young female with bilateral femur fractures may experience severe pain and mobility issues, but her injuries are not immediately life-threatening. The older woman with abdominal pain could be experiencing a variety of issues, some of which may be severe, but without further information suggesting acute distress or instability, she does not warrant immediate intervention. The unresponsive patient with a weak carotid pulse is in a life-threatening situation; however, without more information about the cause of unresponsiveness, it is difficult to determine if immediate intervention would