Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

In the case of a 59-year-old male involved in a motor-vehicle crash, what condition would contraindicate the use of pneumatic antishock garment (PASG)?

1. Severe head trauma

2. Coarse crackles in the lungs

3. Persistent abdominal pain

4. Unstable pelvic fracture

The correct answer is: Coarse crackles in the lungs

In the context of using a pneumatic antishock garment (PASG), the presence of coarse crackles in the lungs indicates a potential respiratory issue, such as fluid in the lungs, which could be a sign of pulmonary edema or other severe respiratory distress. The PASG is designed to apply pressure to the lower extremities and abdomen to support circulation and may impede breathing by increasing intrathoracic pressure. If a patient exhibits coarse crackles, it suggests that the lungs are already compromised, and the additional pressure from a PASG could worsen respiratory function. In contrast, severe head trauma can also raise concerns regarding intracranial pressure, but it does not necessarily contraindicate the use of PASG. Persistent abdominal pain might indicate internal injuries where the PASG could potentially provide some stabilizing effect, while an unstable pelvic fracture may actually benefit from the pelvic component of the PASG by stabilizing the fracture and reducing hemorrhage. Overall, the presence of coarse crackles in the lungs is most concerning as it signifies potential respiratory failure, making the use of PASG inappropriate in this scenario.