Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which situation indicates that a patient would benefit most from a pneumatic antishock garment (PASG)?

1. Conscious patient with minor abdominal injuries

2. Unstable pelvis with a BP of 80/50 mm Hg

3. Severe dehydration requiring fluid resuscitation

4. Patient experiencing chest pain without trauma

The correct answer is: Unstable pelvis with a BP of 80/50 mm Hg

A patient would benefit most from a pneumatic antishock garment (PASG) in the case of an unstable pelvis combined with a blood pressure reading of 80/50 mm Hg. The PASG is designed to provide external pressure to the abdomen and pelvis, which can help stabilize and reduce blood loss from the pelvis in traumatic injuries. This external compression can assist in improving perfusion and blood pressure in patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock due to pelvic fractures or other trauma-related bleeding. The low blood pressure reading signifies that the patient is experiencing significant hemodynamic instability, indicating a critical condition that needs immediate intervention. The application of a PASG can help control potential bleeding and promote blood flow centrally, thereby improving the patient's vital signs and overall stability as additional treatment is initiated. In contrast, the other situations listed are less suitable for the PASG application. Minor injuries, severe dehydration, and non-traumatic chest pain do not present the same immediate risk of hemorrhagic shock from pelvic injury, thus do not warrant the use of this specific garment.