Helmeted motorcyclist struck broadside, unconscious, blood pressure 140/90, heart rate 90 bpm, GCS 6. Immobilization includes all EXCEPT:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Air splints." Air splints are not typically used in the immobilization of a patient with suspected spinal cord injury. The rationale behind this is that air splints do not provide adequate support and stabilization for potential spinal injuries. On the other hand, choices B, C, and D are commonly used in spinal immobilization. "Bolstering devices" help maintain proper alignment of the spine. "A long spine board" is used to safely transfer the patient while keeping the spine in a neutral position. "A scoop-style stretcher" allows for easy and gentle transfer of the patient onto a backboard without compromising spinal alignment. In summary, the use of air splints is not recommended for spinal immobilization due to inadequate support, while bolstering devices, a long spine board, and a scoop-style stretcher are appropriate tools for immobilizing a patient with suspected spinal cord injury.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "The trachea is relatively short." During infant endotracheal intubation, the trachea in infants is shorter compared to adults, making it easier for the endotracheal tube to be inadvertently inserted into the right or left mainstem bronchus. This is due to the anatomy of infants where the distance from the vocal cords to the mainstem bronchi is shorter, increasing the risk of bronchial intubation. Summary: B: The distance from the lips to the larynx being short is not directly related to the risk of bronchial intubation. C: The use of tubes without cuffs is not a primary factor leading to bronchial intubation. D: The angulation of the mainstem bronchi is not a significant factor in the increased risk of bronchial intubation during infant endotracheal intubation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Perform needle cricothyroidotomy with jet insufflation". In this scenario, the infant is in respiratory distress with unsuccessful intubation. Needle cricothyroidotomy is the most appropriate procedure as it provides a rapid and effective way to establish a patent airway in an emergency. Jet insufflation helps provide oxygenation. Administering heliox and racemic epinephrine (B) is not appropriate for this immediate airway management situation. Nasotracheal intubation (C) is not recommended in the case of failed oral intubation and the urgency of the situation. Surgical cricothyroidotomy (D) is more invasive and time-consuming compared to needle cricothyroidotomy in this critical condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Early gastric decompression is important." In pregnant patients following blunt trauma, there is a risk of delayed gastric emptying and aspiration due to compression of the stomach by the gravid uterus. Early gastric decompression helps to prevent aspiration pneumonia and improve respiratory outcomes. Choice B is incorrect because a hemoglobin level of 10g/dl does not specifically indicate recent blood loss in a pregnant patient. Choice C is incorrect as pregnant patients can have a normal or exaggerated CVP response to volume resuscitation. Choice D is incorrect as a lap belt can cause direct pressure on the gravid uterus, increasing the risk of fetal injury during blunt trauma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because being empathetic involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others. This includes recognizing emotions and showing compassion. Choice A is incorrect as empathy goes beyond just being alert. Choice B is incorrect as accurate documentation is not necessarily related to empathy. Choice D is incorrect as taking responsibility for one's actions is not the definition of being empathetic. Empathy is about emotional connection and understanding others' perspectives.