Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which type of injury is associated with the greatest risk for severe internal bleeding?

1. Rib fractures

2. Pelvic fractures

3. Humerus fractures

4. Skull fractures

The correct answer is: Pelvic fractures

The correct choice is associated with pelvic fractures, which pose the greatest risk for severe internal bleeding due to the anatomy and structure of the pelvis. The pelvis is a ring of bone that houses major blood vessels and organs, including the iliac arteries and veins. When a fracture occurs in this area, there can be significant disruption to these vessels, leading to potential hemorrhage. Pelvic fractures often result from high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from significant heights, making the risk of accompanying injuries more prevalent. Additionally, the stability of the pelvic ring is crucial for maintaining vascular integrity; when compromised, it can lead to rapid and life-threatening blood loss. In contrast, while rib fractures can lead to complications such as pneumothorax or damage to the lungs, they are less likely to cause profound internal bleeding. Humerus fractures typically do not involve major blood vessels that can lead to severe hemorrhage. Skull fractures may involve the brain or cranial structures but do not directly correlate with the risk of internal bleeding in the same way pelvic fractures do. Therefore, pelvic fractures are recognized as particularly hazardous regarding severe internal bleeding.