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

What is the first action to take for a patient pulled from a house fire with burns?

1. Apply ointment to the burns

2. Assess for airway and respiratory distress

3. Cover the burns with a clean cloth

4. Cool the burns with water

The correct answer is: Assess for airway and respiratory distress

The first action for a patient pulled from a house fire with burns is to assess for airway and respiratory distress. In scenarios involving fire, the risk of airway injury from smoke inhalation is significant, and it can lead to life-threatening conditions. Smoke can cause airway inflammation and swelling, which can obstruct breathing, even if the skin burns appear manageable. By prioritizing the assessment of the airway and breathing, you ensure that the patient receives immediate attention to any life-threatening complications that may arise from smoke inhalation. This step is crucial because treating burns is less effective if the patient is unable to breathe. Following the airway assessment, other interventions like cooling the burns and covering them can be performed, but these should come after confirming that the airway is clear and that the patient can breathe adequately. Prioritizing airway management is consistent with the principles of emergency care, focusing first on the most critical systems that maintain life.