New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

How can bleeding from a vein be characterized?

1. Bright red and spurting

2. Dark red, flowing steadily

3. Pale yellow and oozing

4. Dark brown and clotted

The correct answer is: Dark red, flowing steadily

Bleeding from a vein is characterized by dark red, flowing steadily. This is because venous blood, which returns to the heart, is deoxygenated and typically has a darker color compared to arterial blood. When a vein is damaged, the blood exits the body in a steady flow rather than in spurts, which is typical of arterial bleeding. The steady flow occurs due to the lower pressure in the venous system compared to the arterial system. When considering the other descriptors, bright red and spurting is indicative of arterial bleeding, which is under higher pressure and oxygen-rich. Pale yellow and oozing does not represent the characteristics of any significant bleeding and is more associated with minor fluid loss. Dark brown and clotted would suggest old blood or a different pathological state, which is not typical of active venous bleeding in an acute setting. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for EMTs in assessing a patient's condition and determining the appropriate course of treatment.