Your patient is a construction worker who fell 15 feet and has a 3-foot metal concrete reinforcement bar (rebar) impaled in his right thigh. Which of the following is the best action?
A) Administer sodium bicarbonate to combat acidosis resulting from the destruction of muscle tissue.
B) If the proper tools and personnel are present, have rescuers cut the rebar to a manageable length.
C) If you can see both ends of the rebar, gently remove it and irrigate the wound with sterile saline.
D) Transport the patient without attempting to shorten or remove the rebar.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best course of action in this scenario, if the proper tools and personnel are present, is to have rescuers cut the rebar to a manageable length before transporting the patient. This can help prevent further injury and make it easier to transport the patient. Attempting to remove the rebar without proper tools and expertise can cause further harm to the patient. Option A is not necessary unless there is evidence of acidosis. Option C should only be considered if both ends of the rebar are visible and can be accessed easily. Option D is not advisable as transporting the patient with the rebar in place can cause further harm.

Your Patient Is a Construction Worker Who Fell 15 Feet