New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

What is NOT part of the general treatment for a woman with vaginal bleeding following sexual assault?

1. Supplemental oxygen and lower extremity elevation

2. Refraining from placing dressings into the vagina

3. Carefully removing any foreign bodies from the vagina

4. Treating external lacerations with sterile compresses

The correct answer is: Carefully removing any foreign bodies from the vagina

In the context of treating a woman with vaginal bleeding following a sexual assault, the focus is primarily on ensuring the patient's safety and comfort while avoiding any actions that could cause further harm or complications. Carefully removing any foreign bodies from the vagina is not part of the general treatment protocol because this can potentially worsen the injury, lead to further bleeding, or introduce infection. This approach could also significantly compromise the evidence collection process, which is essential in sexual assault cases. Instead, the priority is to stabilize the patient and provide necessary care without any invasive procedures that might disrupt the area. In contrast, supplemental oxygen and lower extremity elevation are typically included as part of treatment if the patient shows signs of shock. Additionally, refraining from placing dressings into the vagina is crucial to avoid aggravating any injuries. Treating external lacerations with sterile compresses is also a necessary action to control bleeding and prevent infection. These measures focus on providing supportive care while ensuring the patient remains stable during transport to a medical facility.