Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

If an object is impaled, what should you do?

1. Apply ice to reduce swelling

2. Remove the object immediately

3. Apply direct pressure to the site

4. Manually secure; control bleeding and stabilize object

The correct answer is: Manually secure; control bleeding and stabilize object

When an object is impaled in a wound, the best course of action is to manually secure, control bleeding, and stabilize the object. This approach is crucial for several reasons. First, removing the object can cause additional damage to blood vessels, muscles, and surrounding tissues, potentially worsening the injury and increasing the risk of severe bleeding. Stabilizing the object helps maintain its position to prevent further injury to the patient. Applying direct pressure to control any bleeding is important, but it should be done around the base of the object rather than directly on top of it. This method protects the integrity of any underlying structures that may be affected by the object. This strategy is supported by standard emergency care protocols, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unnecessary movement or removal of foreign objects unless they pose a significant threat to the airway or circulation. Therefore, manually securing and stabilizing the object while controlling bleeding aligns with best practices for managing impaled objects in emergency situations.