Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Basic Certification Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Become a certified EMT!

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Why is it important to treat for shock in a patient with abdominal eviscerations?

To reduce the risk of infection
To stabilize the blood pressure
To relieve pain
To ensure proper organ alignment

The correct answer is: To stabilize the blood pressure

Treating for shock in a patient with abdominal eviscerations is essential primarily to stabilize the blood pressure. When internal organs are exposed due to an evisceration, there is a significant risk of blood loss from the damaged vessels, leading to hypovolemic shock. Shock occurs when the body does not have enough blood circulating to meet its needs, which can result in critically low blood pressure and inadequate perfusion to vital organs. By addressing shock, EMTs can implement measures such as maintaining the patient's airway, providing supplemental oxygen, establishing intravenous access, and possibly administering fluids to help restore circulating volume. Stabilizing blood pressure is crucial to prevent further complications, including organ failure, that can arise from prolonged inadequate blood flow. While reducing the risk of infection, relieving pain, and ensuring proper organ alignment are important considerations in overall patient care, they do not directly address the immediate life-threatening consequences of shock as stabilizing blood pressure does.