West Coast EMT Block One Exam

Which scenario is least likely to be classified as a multiple-casualty incident?

1. A loss of power to a hospital

2. A motor vehicle crash with critically injured patients

3. An apartment fire with one patient

4. A rollover crash of a school bus

The correct answer is: A motor vehicle crash with critically injured patients

The scenario described involves a motor vehicle crash with critically injured patients, which typically implies multiple individuals could be involved, potentially leading to several serious injuries that would necessitate a coordinated emergency response. This scenario is usually indicative of a multiple-casualty incident because of the possibility of numerous victims requiring immediate medical care. In contrast, a loss of power to a hospital can disrupt services but does not directly involve an immediate physical crisis affecting multiple individuals at the scene. An apartment fire with one patient clearly implies only a single victim, making it not fit the mold of a multiple-casualty incident. Finally, a rollover crash of a school bus frequently signifies that many passengers are likely on board, which would increase the chances of multiple casualties. Thus, while the motor vehicle crash scenario may sound severe, it is less classified as a multiple-casualty incident when compared to scenarios involving clear indications of many individuals being affected. The context and numbers involved in the other scenarios lead them more directly to classification as multiple-casualty incidents.