What is the best action if a patient is trapped in a vehicle with airbags deployed?

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 a situation where a patient is trapped in a vehicle with deployed airbags, turning off the ignition is crucial for several reasons. When the ignition is on, there is a risk that the airbags could accidentally deploy again, which could further harm the patient or anyone trying to assist. Additionally, keeping the vehicle in a safe and stable condition is necessary to prevent any electrical hazards or fires.

The other actions, while potentially relevant in other contexts, do not address the immediate safety risks posed by the deployed airbags. Cutting the seatbelt may not be the priority before ensuring that the ignition is off, as doing so while the airbags are potentially ready to deploy could be dangerous. Leaving the airbags alone does not account for the risk of further deployment or movement, and applying manual stabilization is essential in some scenarios, but it should be done with the understanding that the vehicle is safe to enter and work around. Thus, turning off the ignition addresses the primary concern regarding safety in the presence of deployed airbags.

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