Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

What is the first action you should take upon entering a patient’s room and finding them slumped in a recliner?

1. Determine the need for additional resources

2. Check for life-threatening bleeding

3. Obtain an initial impression of the patient

4. Begin treatment immediately

The correct answer is: Determine the need for additional resources

The most appropriate initial action upon entering a patient's room and finding them slumped in a recliner is to obtain an initial impression of the patient. This means assessing the patient's responsiveness, their overall physical state, and any potential danger the situation may pose both to the patient and to the responder. Gathering an initial impression is crucial because it helps to prioritize the subsequent steps in the management of the patient. For example, the clinician can assess whether the patient is conscious, breathing, or in severe distress. This assessment can guide whether further actions, such as checking for life-threatening conditions or initiating treatment, are needed. Taking quick stock of the situation allows for informed decision-making, ensuring that any necessary emergency protocols are initiated. While determining the need for additional resources or checking for life-threatening bleeding are certainly important steps in emergency care, they should follow a preliminary assessment of the patient’s immediate condition. Starting treatment without knowing the patient's status could lead to inappropriate responses to their needs.