West Coast EMT Block Exam

The Primary Service Area (PSA) is the designated geographic region where an EMS agency is responsible for responding to emergency calls. It is determined by local regulations and EMS agreements to ensure appropriate coverage and response times. This differs from a medical director’s oversight, which applies to protocols rather than physical areas. The EMT can provide patient care anywhere needed, not just in one certified location.

Hemostasis refers to the process of stopping bleeding, either by natural clotting mechanisms or through medical intervention. It is essential in wound healing and trauma care. Hemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells, hematemesis is vomiting blood, and hemiplegia is paralysis of one side of the body.

The Moro reflex is a startle reflex seen in neonates, where they throw their arms out, spread their fingers, then quickly bring them back in response to a sudden movement or loud noise. It is a normal neurological response in newborns. Option A describes the Babinski reflex, option B describes a cardiovascular response to hypoxia, and option C describes the rooting reflex.

The power grip provides maximum strength and control by keeping the hands palms-up and gripping the object firmly. This technique helps reduce injury risk and improves lifting power by engaging the largest muscle groups. Palms-down lifting (Option B) is less effective and weakens grip strength. Proper hand positioning ensures safe patient handling.

The normal resting heart rate for adults (19–60 years old) is typically between 60–100 beats per minute, with an average of 70 bpm. A heart rate of 60 bpm (Option D) is on the lower end, often seen in athletic individuals, while 90 bpm (Option C) is on the higher end but still within normal limits. The heart rate varies based on fitness level, stress, and overall health.

Fontanelles are soft spots on an infant's skull that allow for brain growth and flexibility during birth. These membranous areas enable bone expansion, gradually closing as the child develops. They are not for muscle attachment or fluid regulation. Proper closure of fontanelles is an indicator of healthy skull development.

Bariatric stretchers are designed to transport obese patients safely by providing greater weight capacity and structural support. They reduce the risk of injury for both patients and EMS personnel. While they do improve stability (Option D) and comfort (Option A), their primary function is to accommodate higher weight loads.

A semiconscious patient requires full immobilization on a fracture board to prevent exacerbating spinal injuries. The strongest provider should be positioned at the head end, as they guide and control movement. A stair chair (Options A & B) is not ideal for an unconscious or semi-conscious patient. Head-first movement (Option D) increases injury risk.

A stair chair is the safest method for transporting a conscious, weak patient down stairs because it reduces fall risk and provides controlled movement. Walking them down (Option B) can be dangerous, and carrying a patient on a wheeled stretcher (Option C) is impractical. A scoop stretcher (Option D) is not ideal for conscious patients.

A long backboard provides full spinal immobilization, preventing further movement and reducing the risk of spinal cord damage. A scoop stretcher (Option A) is used for lifting but does not provide full immobilization. Portable stretchers (Option C) and wheeled stretchers (Option D) are not suitable for suspected spinal injuries.