West Coast EMT Block One Exam

What is the EMT's first priority at the scene of an emergency?

1. Personal safety

2. Rapid response

3. Treatment and transport

4. Empathy for all patients

The correct answer is: Personal safety

The first priority for an EMT at the scene of an emergency is personal safety. This is crucial because, without ensuring one’s own safety, an EMT cannot effectively provide care to patients or assist others. An EMT must assess the scene for any potential dangers, such as traffic, fire, hazardous materials, or violent individuals, before commencing any patient care activities. This focus on personal safety also extends to protecting fellow responders and bystanders. Only after ensuring the scene is secure is it appropriate to begin rapid response and treatment for the patients involved. Prioritizing personal safety lays the foundation for effective emergency medical care and ensures the responder can operate without becoming a victim themselves.