New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

In the event of a non-deployed airbag, which factor should you prioritize during patient care?

1. Injury assessment

2. Potential deployment risk

3. Evaluation of seatbelt use

4. Vehicle speed

The correct answer is: Potential deployment risk

Prioritizing the potential deployment risk of a non-deployed airbag is crucial during patient care because this factor poses an immediate safety hazard. A non-deployed airbag can still potentially activate if the vehicle is further disturbed or during extrication efforts. Knowing that an airbag could deploy unexpectedly adds a layer of urgency to how you approach the care scene. It emphasizes the need for protective measures for both the patient and responders while assessing the situation, ensuring that all involved are kept safe. In contrast, while injury assessment, evaluation of seatbelt use, and vehicle speed are important elements of patient care following a motor vehicle accident, they become secondary to the immediate risk posed by the airbag. By addressing the airbag first, you reduce the chances of causing additional harm to the patient or responders if the airbag were to deploy during the rescue efforts. Thus, understanding the dynamics of a non-deployed airbag is essential for maintaining a safe environment in which to provide care.