West Coast EMT Block One Exam

To protect a restrained patient, what should an EMT secure?

1. only the patient's torso.

2. both arms at the patient's sides.

3. one arm above the head.

4. both arms above the head.

The correct answer is: one arm above the head.

When securing a restrained patient, it is important to ensure their safety and comfort while also preventing any risk of injury. Securing one arm above the head helps in a few key ways. First, it allows for better access to the patient's upper extremities for medical care or monitoring, which can be crucial in an emergency situation. This positioning can also reduce the likelihood of the patient using their arms to unintentionally harm themselves or interfere with medical equipment. Additionally, securing one arm above the head can help in maintaining a proper airway and minimizing the risk of aspiration, especially in an unresponsive patient. It also aids in compliance with protocols that prioritize patient safety while allowing enough freedom of movement to prevent further agitation or distress. Overall, this method of restraint balances patient protection with the necessity of maintaining access to their medical needs, which is vital in emergency medical situations.