An 83-year-old female has fallen down the basement stairs. Once at her side, she tells you that her left hip hurts and rates it 10/10. Since the patient is downstairs, you recognize the need for assistance in extricating from the residence. As you start the primary assessment, you note a dog at the top of the stairs growling. At this time, what is your primary concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a growling dog poses an immediate safety concern for both the patient and the EMS provider. The provider's safety should always be a primary concern, as well as the possibility of the dog attacking the patient or interfering with extrication. Once the situation with the dog is addressed, the provider can move onto other primary concerns such as airway and pain management.

An 83-Year-Old Female Has Fallen Down the Basement Stairs