MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

When a victim is in shock, which step is crucial for ensuring their safety?

1. Providing food and drink

2. Establishing a calm environment

3. Instantly transporting them to the hospital

4. Administering CPR

The correct answer is: Establishing a calm environment

Establishing a calm environment is crucial when a victim is in shock because it helps to reduce their anxiety and stress, which can exacerbate their condition. Shock can cause a person's body to respond with heightened stress levels, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can be detrimental to their already compromised state. Creating a tranquil atmosphere can stabilize the victim's emotions, making it easier for them to breathe normally and for medical personnel to assess their situation. In a calm environment, communication can be clearer, and the victim may feel more secure, encouraging them to remain as still and relaxed as possible. This can be particularly important in managing shock, as movement can increase the demand for oxygen and exacerbate physiological symptoms. The importance of the other options is less immediate when dealing with shock. For example, providing food and drink could worsen the situation if the victim is unable to swallow or is at risk of choking. Instant transportation to a hospital may be necessary but should not come at the expense of ensuring the victim's stability first. Similarly, while CPR is crucial for cases of cardiac arrest, it is not a primary action for someone who is simply in shock, unless there are additional life-threatening circumstances present. Overall, establishing a calm environment lays the foundation