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

When should a victim of a diving accident be removed from the water?

1. As soon as they show signs of distress

2. Only after proper immobilization

3. Immediately if they are unconscious

4. After they have been stabilized on the shore

The correct answer is: Only after proper immobilization

In the context of a diving accident, the most critical factor is the potential for spinal injury due to the mechanism of the accident, particularly if the victim struck their head during the dive. Removing the victim from the water must be done cautiously to avoid exacerbating any possible injuries. Proper immobilization is essential because it helps to protect the spine from additional movement that could lead to further damage. Before attempting to remove a victim from the water, it is important to ensure that their head and neck are stabilized. This may involve using various immobilization techniques, including spinal boards and manual stabilization by rescuers. This is done to minimize movement along the spine, which is crucial as not all injuries are immediately apparent, and without proper care, further injury can result. While showing signs of distress or being unconscious could indicate urgency, it does not negate the necessity for immobilization. Likewise, waiting until the victim is stabilized on the shore before extraction may not address the immediate risks present in the water. Thus, ensuring proper immobilization before removal is essential for the safety and care of the victim.