Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

For a patient showing signs of a dissecting aortic aneurysm, what is the most critical intervention?

1. Administering aspirin

2. Establishing IV access

3. Performing CPR

4. Prompt transport

The correct answer is: Prompt transport

In the case of a patient exhibiting signs of a dissecting aortic aneurysm, prompt transport to an appropriate medical facility is the most critical intervention. A dissecting aortic aneurysm can lead to life-threatening complications, such as rupture or severe internal bleeding. This condition requires immediate surgical intervention, and the sooner the patient reaches a hospital capable of providing such care, the better the chances for survival. Ensuring rapid transport minimizes the time that the patient spends in a potentially unstable condition and allows for advanced medical interventions to be initiated as soon as possible. While establishing IV access and administering agency protocols such as oxygen or medications might be important, they do not take precedence over getting the patient to specialized care swiftly. If the condition progresses during transport, other interventions can be applied en route; however, the primary goal should always be to facilitate rapid transport to definitive care.