First Aid for Corrections Officers Practice Test

What is the primary goal of applying a chest seal during an emergency?

1. To prevent air from entering the wound

2. To allow blood to flow out of the wound

3. To facilitate drainage from the wound

4. To apply pressure to the injury site

The correct answer is: To prevent air from entering the wound

The primary goal of applying a chest seal during an emergency is to prevent air from entering the wound. In cases of an open chest wound, such as a pneumothorax or sucking chest wound, it's critical to manage the airway and prevent air from being sucked into the pleural cavity as this can lead to a collapsed lung. A chest seal creates a barrier that secures the wound and prevents air from entering while allowing any excess air or blood to escape, thus maintaining normal pressure in the chest cavity. This intervention is essential in stabilizing the patient's condition until further medical treatment is available, as it helps reduce the risk of respiratory failure and other complications associated with open chest wounds. While controlling bleeding and allowing fluid to drain are important in their own right, the immediate focus in applying a chest seal is on preventing further complications from a potential pneumothorax, which directly relates to managing airflow and pressure within the thoracic cavity.