New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What is the MOST APPROPRIATE treatment for a child with a pencil impaled in the inner cheek?

1. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding

2. Remove the pencil and control bleeding on both sides of the cheek

3. Leave the pencil in place and transport to the hospital

4. Remove the pencil while applying ice to the cheek

The correct answer is: Remove the pencil and control bleeding on both sides of the cheek

The most appropriate treatment for a child with a pencil impaled in the inner cheek is to leave the pencil in place and transport the child to the hospital. This is crucial because removing the object can increase the risk of further injury, such as damage to blood vessels or nerves, and may exacerbate bleeding. In such scenarios, stabilizing the object to prevent it from moving or causing additional harm is paramount. Medical professionals at a hospital are equipped to manage this situation safely, which can include advanced imaging to assess for injuries and the proper removal of the pencil. While applying pressure or ice might seem like viable options to manage potential bleeding or swelling, they are not appropriate interventions in the context of an impaled object where removal could lead to severe complications. Therefore, the best course of action is to ensure the object remains in place and to seek professional medical care immediately.