North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Study for the North Carolina EMT Exam with our engaging resources. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions designed to help you grasp critical concepts with hints and explanations. Ace your examination and take the first step towards a rewarding career in emergency medical services!

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What is the first step in the START Triage process?

Assess the patient's pulse
Ask patients to get up and walk
Check the mental status
Assess respirations

The correct answer is: Ask patients to get up and walk

In the START Triage process, the first step is to quickly sort patients based on the urgency of their medical needs during a mass casualty incident. The approach is to prioritize patients with the most critical needs to ensure that care is directed to those who require it most urgently. Asking patients to get up and walk serves a vital purpose in this scenario. It helps to identify individuals who are able to walk, indicating they are likely less severely injured or stable and can be categorized as "Green" or "Minor" patients. This quick assessment allows responders to focus their efforts on those who are unable to walk, as those individuals may be in a more critical state and need immediate attention. This method reduces the overall time spent assessing each patient, enabling the medical team to triage efficiently in a chaotic situation. Other assessments, such as checking mental status or assessing vital signs, are essential but come after this initial sorting step, which is designed to quickly establish a hierarchy of care based on ability to move, breathing status, and responsiveness.