EMS Operations and Safety Flashcards

Which START triage category is assigned to a patient who is breathing after a head-tilt/chin-lift but has a respiratory rate of 32 breaths per minute?

Answer: Red

A respiratory rate above 30 breaths per minute after repositioning classifies the patient as Red (Immediate) in START triage.

Which federal regulation governs the transportation of hazardous materials on U.S. highways and applies to EMS response planning?

Answer: DOT 49 CFR

DOT 49 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) governs the transportation of hazardous materials on U.S. highways.

During an MCI, the term 'span of control' in ICS refers to:

Answer: The number of subordinates one supervisor can effectively manage (typically 3–7)

Span of control is the number of resources one supervisor can manage effectively, ideally 3–7 with 5 being optimal.

A paramedic experiences symptoms of stress after a traumatic pediatric call. The BEST initial support intervention is:

Answer: Peer support and open communication with crew members

Immediate peer support and open communication are the first-line, evidence-supported interventions after a traumatic event.

When lifting a heavy patient, which body mechanics rule is MOST important to prevent back injury?

Answer: Keep the load close to the body and lift with the legs

Keeping the load close and lifting with leg muscles protects the spine from compressive and shear forces.

An ambulance loses power steering while en route to a hospital. The safest action is to:

Answer: Gradually reduce speed, pull safely off the road, and notify dispatch

Gradually reducing speed and safely pulling over prevents loss of control while keeping crew and patient safe.

Which NIMS component establishes common terminology and integrated communications across agencies?

Answer: Communications and information management

The communications and information management component of NIMS ensures interoperability through common terminology and integrated systems.