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

To assess the circulatory status of a patient's limbs distal to an injury site, what should you check?

1. Pulses, skin color, and temperature

2. Skin texture and sensation

3. Capillary refill time only

4. Level of consciousness

The correct answer is: Pulses, skin color, and temperature

To assess the circulatory status of a patient's limbs distal to an injury site, it is essential to evaluate the blood flow and overall circulatory function in the affected areas. Checking pulsations in the arteries (pulses), observing the skin color, and feeling the temperature of the skin together provide a comprehensive overview of how well the circulatory system is functioning in that region. Pulses indicate the presence of blood flow; if pulses are weak or absent, it may signify compromised circulation. Skin color can reveal issues such as pallor (indicating potential shock or inadequate blood flow) or cyanosis (a sign of poor oxygenation). The skin temperature helps to determine whether the blood flow is adequate; cool skin may indicate reduced circulation, while warm skin can suggest normal blood flow. This multifaceted approach ensures that any circulatory compromise is detected promptly, allowing for timely intervention. Other methods like checking skin texture, sensation, or capillary refill time alone might provide useful information, but they do not give as comprehensive a picture of overall circulatory status as the combination of pulses, skin color, and temperature. Level of consciousness, while important, is more related to neurological status than to circulatory assessment.