New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when a patient's radial pulse is absent?

1. Assessing the extent of injuries

2. Ensuring airway patency

3. Evaluating the need for CPR

4. Locating the nearest hospital

The correct answer is: Evaluating the need for CPR

The primary concern when a patient's radial pulse is absent is closely tied to the evaluation of the patient's circulatory status and the potential need for immediate life-saving interventions, such as CPR. The absence of a radial pulse may indicate that the heart is not effectively pumping blood or that there is significant blood loss, which can lead to inadequate perfusion of vital organs. In such situations, assessing the need for CPR becomes crucial, especially if the patient is unresponsive or showing signs of altered mental status. Initiating CPR can provide critical blood flow to the brain and other organs until advanced medical help arrives. Additionally, a lack of a radial pulse is often accompanied by other clinical signs that require urgent attention. Focusing on airway patency or assessing injuries might be necessary as well but is secondary to addressing the potential cardiac arrest indicated by the absence of a pulse. The mention of locating the nearest hospital does not take precedence in an immediate emergency situation where the patient’s life is at risk due to the absence of a pulse.