A 36-year-old male was accidentally shot with a nail gun into the chest. Under which of the following circumstances should you remove the nail?

Study for the NOLS Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam confidently!

In the scenario provided, the correct choice is that none of the circumstances listed justify removing the nail from the chest. In medical emergencies involving penetrating injuries, such as those caused by a nail gun, removal of the object can cause more harm than good. This is primarily due to the risk of exacerbating internal damage and increasing bleeding.

If the nail is obstructing breathing, it might seem logical to remove it to allow for adequate airflow; however, doing so could lead to severe complications, including worsening bleeding or dislodging any tissue that might be holding the wound together.

The length of the nail also doesn’t provide a valid reason for removal. Even if it appears long or intimidating, the potential for tissue damage and bleeding takes precedence over the nail's size.

Although severe pain is a significant concern, it’s not a valid reason to remove the nail. Pain management is essential, but addressing it does not necessitate the removal of the projectile, which might further compromise the patient’s condition.

In wilderness medicine, the principle of “leave it in place unless it poses an immediate threat to life” is crucial, and therefore the correct choice indicates that none of the provided circumstances warrant the removal of the nail. Instead, immobilization and transport to a

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy