A young female was involved in an altercation and stabbed in the abdomen with an ice pick. After being stabbed, she quickly removed the ice pick. She states that there was not much bleeding but does say it "stings" quite a bit. Assessment reveals a small puncture wound to the lower right quadrant with some dried blood around the site. Which best describes the primary focus of the EMT in caring for this patient?

Question

A) Keeping the entry site clean and free of infection
B) Assessing for internal blood loss or shock
C) Assessing for underlying injury to the spleen
D) Preventing air from entering the abdominal cavity

Answer 1

B) Assessing for internal blood loss or shock