Before releasing a crushed body part, what action should be taken?

Prepare for the USAF EMS Protocol Practical Exam with comprehensive quizzes. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations to enhance your learning. Ace your exam!

Before releasing a crushed body part, it is crucial to stabilize the injury and control any potential bleeding. Applying two tourniquets above the crushed extremity is the correct action because it helps ensure that bleeding is adequately controlled while reducing the risk of further injury or complications that can arise when relieving pressure from a crushed area.

When a body part is crushed, there can be significant bruising, swelling, and potential damage to blood vessels and nerves. Releasing the affected area can lead to a sudden rush of blood flow back to that region, which may trigger severe bleeding from damaged vessels that were previously compressed. By placing tourniquets above the injury site, the blood flow can be effectively managed, allowing for a safer release of the crushed part.

Other options may not address the immediate risk of bleeding or may delay appropriate action. For instance, applying a splint is useful for stabilizing a fracture but does not prevent further bleeding when releasing pressure. Administering pain medication can provide comfort but does not address the physiological risks involved in the release process. Using a physiological agent to ease the release may not be practical or feasible in an emergency situation and does not secure the area from potential complications.

In a high-risk scenario, ensuring that the priority is to

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy