Eight patients were burned in a factory fire. Shortly thereafter, four firefighters were seen with possible smoke inhalation problems. Which of the following best describes how these patients are different from the first patients to arrive?

Question

a. Burn patients probably have skin damage, whereas the firefighters have lung damage.
b. Burn patients will need extensive care over time, whereas the firefighters can probably stay the night with oxygen treatment and then be discharged.
c. The burn patients were direct victims, whereas the firefighters are indirect victims.
d. The second set of victims may have scarring, shortness of breath, and persistent hoarseness for the next few days.

Answer 1

ANS: C
Both sets of victims would have inhaled smoke and have lung damage. The treatment and length of stay would be determined by the amount of damage, which may vary from victim to victim. Both sets of victims, depending on the severity of the burns, may have scarring, shortness of breath, and persistent hoarseness for the rest of their lives. A direct victim is an individual who is immediately affected by the event; the indirect victim may be a family member or friend of the victim or a first responder.