Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the primary reason for applying direct pressure to a bleeding wound?

To reduce pain immediately
To prevent infection
To control bleeding
To allow for better visibility of the wound

The correct answer is: To control bleeding

Applying direct pressure to a bleeding wound is primarily aimed at controlling bleeding. When direct pressure is exerted on a wound, it helps to constrict blood vessels and encourages the formation of a clot, thereby reducing blood loss. This is a critical intervention in emergency situations, as excessive bleeding can quickly lead to shock or even be life-threatening. While reducing pain, preventing infection, and visibility of the wound may also be considerations during wound care, they are secondary to the immediate need to control bleeding. Hemostasis, the process of stopping bleeding, is essential in emergency medical care, and using direct pressure is one of the most effective and immediate ways to manage an actively bleeding wound. Understanding this principle is crucial for anyone in pre-hospital emergency care.