West Coast EMT Block One Exam

If a patient has fractured both of their femurs, how would this condition be described anatomically?

1. bilateral

2. medial

3. proximal

4. unilateral

The correct answer is: bilateral

The anatomical term that accurately describes the condition of having both femurs fractured is bilateral. This term is used to indicate that a condition affects both sides of the body. In this case, the patient has sustained fractures in both femurs, which are located on opposite sides of the body. Understanding the terminology is crucial for effective communication in medical contexts. Other terms like medial refer to something located closer to the midline of the body, proximal indicates a position closer to the trunk or point of attachment, and unilateral signifies something affecting only one side of the body. Since both femurs are fractured, only the term bilateral is appropriate in this scenario, as it expressly conveys involvement on both sides.