West Coast EMT Block One Exam

Which patient position is safest for transport if they show signs of shock?

1. Supine with legs elevated

2. Left lateral recumbent

3. Sitting upright

4. On the right side

The correct answer is: Supine with legs elevated

When assessing the safest patient position for transport in cases of shock, placing the patient in the supine position with legs elevated is crucial. This positioning promotes blood flow back to the heart and vital organs, which is essential in managing shock. In a state of shock, the body’s circulation can be compromised, leading to decreased blood flow to critical areas. The supine position helps ensure that gravity assists in directing blood flow towards the core. Elevating the legs further enhances venous return, helping to stabilize blood pressure and improve perfusion to vital organs. While other positions, such as lying on the left lateral side or sitting upright, may be appropriate in different scenarios (like airway management or comfort), they do not provide the optimum hemodynamic support required for a patient in shock. Conversely, lying on the right side might be beneficial for certain individual conditions but does not offer the same advantages for shock management as the supine with legs elevated position.