Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

What are the contraindications of a trauma TOR?

1. Less than 16 years old

2. Monitored HR greater than 0 and ED is less than 30 mins away

3. Defibrillation delivered

4. Only palpable pulse

The correct answer is: Less than 16 years old

In the context of trauma Total Out-of-Hospital Resuscitation (TOR) policies, it is critical to recognize the specific circumstances under which these protocols are applicable. The choice of being less than 16 years old as a contraindication is especially pertinent because pediatric patients often have different physiological responses and considerations compared to adults. The principles of trauma care dictate that younger patients may require different assessment strategies and interventions due to their unique physiological characteristics and higher potential for recovery compared to an adult. In pediatric cases, the criteria for determining the likelihood of survival and need for resuscitation significantly differ from those applied in adults. Therefore, individuals under 16 years of age are usually excluded from TOR protocols to ensure they receive appropriate evaluation and medical intervention. This ensures that younger patients have the opportunity for resuscitation efforts, acknowledging their different survival rates and treatment protocols in traumatic situations. Understanding the implications of this age-related contraindication helps paramedics make informed decisions that prioritize patient outcomes based on age-appropriate guidelines.