Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

How should you treat a chest impalement?

1. Apply heat packs

2. Apply ice packs

3. Apply direct pressure to the impaled object

4. Occlusive dressing on 3 sides

The correct answer is: Occlusive dressing on 3 sides

The correct approach to treating a chest impalement is to apply an occlusive dressing on three sides. This technique is vital because it allows for the escape of air but prevents air from entering the chest cavity, which could cause a tension pneumothorax. The occlusive dressing helps stabilize the impaled object, reduces the risk of further injury, and offers a barrier against environmental contaminants. Direct pressure to the impaled object is generally discouraged as it can exacerbate internal injury or disturb the object causing further harm. Similarly, applying ice packs or heat packs does not address the critical need to manage an open chest wound and could potentially harm the tissue surrounding the injury. Thus, using an occlusive dressing properly prioritizes both wound management and the patient’s safety.