A 40 year old obese patient with GCS of 8 requires a CT scan. Before transfer to the scanner, you should:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Insert a definitive airway Rationale: 1. Patient has a low GCS of 8, indicating impaired consciousness and airway protection. 2. Obesity can further complicate airway management during sedation. 3. Inserting a definitive airway ensures adequate oxygenation and ventilation. 4. CT scan can cause respiratory depression, necessitating secure airway before transfer. 5. Multilumen esophageal airway is not indicated as it does not secure the airway. 6. Sedative drugs should be used cautiously due to the risk of respiratory depression. 7. Lateral cervical spine film is not necessary before CT scan in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the chain of command represents the hierarchical structure within an organization, outlining who reports to whom. It ensures clear communication, accountability, and efficient decision-making. Option A is incorrect as it refers to legal liability. Option B is incorrect as it only refers to the department head, not the entire structure. Option D is incorrect as it focuses on reporting a problem rather than the overall structure of authority.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Protect privacy of health information. HIPAA was enacted to establish national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. This legislation aims to safeguard the confidentiality and security of patient information, ensuring that it is not inappropriately disclosed or accessed. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because HIPAA's primary focus is on privacy regulations rather than health insurance coverage, care procedures, or abuse prevention.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Taste. Taste is not typically used in making observations because it requires the consumption of a substance to gather information, which may not be practical or safe in all situations. Sight, touch, and smell can all be used to make observations without the need for direct consumption. Taste is more subjective and can vary greatly from person to person, making it less reliable for objective observations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hear. Even though a person in a coma may appear unconscious, their auditory system is often still functional. Studies have shown that comatose patients can respond to auditory stimuli, indicating that they can indeed hear. This ability to hear can be crucial for communication and potentially aiding in their recovery. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as speaking, seeing, and walking require conscious control and coordination of different body systems, which are typically impaired in a comatose state.