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

Which symptom indicates a serious abdominal injury that requires immediate attention?

1. Nausea and vomiting

2. Protruding organs

3. Localized swelling

4. Minor bruising

The correct answer is: Protruding organs

Protruding organs is a clear indication of a serious abdominal injury that requires immediate medical attention. This symptom, known as evisceration, suggests that there has been significant trauma to the abdominal cavity, potentially resulting in damage to internal organs. When organs protrude from the abdomen, it can lead to severe complications such as infection and further injury to the organs themselves. Prompt medical intervention is crucial to manage bleeding, prevent contamination of the abdominal cavity, and to ensure that the patient receives the necessary surgical care as soon as possible. In contrast, symptoms like nausea and vomiting, localized swelling, and minor bruising may indicate injuries or stress to the body, but they do not necessarily reflect the immediate life-threatening nature that protruding organs do. These symptoms can arise from a variety of conditions, many of which may not warrant urgent intervention compared to the severe and immediate risks posed by evisceration.