MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

In the case of a person impaled by a pipe through the leg, what is the best initial action?

1. Attempt to remove the pipe

2. Poor water over the leg to clean the wound

3. Immobilize the leg

4. Wrap the leg with a tourniquet

The correct answer is: Immobilize the leg

In a scenario where a person has been impaled by a pipe, the best initial action involves immobilizing the leg. This is crucial because movement can cause additional damage to the surrounding tissues, compromise blood vessels, and lead to increased bleeding. Immobilizing the injury helps stabilize the pipe and minimizes further injury during transport to medical facilities. When dealing with impalements, removing the object can lead to severe complications, including uncontrolled bleeding and shock. Cleaning the wound with water prior to medical assistance may introduce contaminants and worsen infection risk. Wrapping the leg with a tourniquet may be necessary in some situations with severe bleeding, but it should not be the first action in this case since it could exacerbate any existing injuries and may not be applicable if bleeding is not life-threatening. Thus, immobilizing the leg serves as an effective first step in managing the situation, promoting stability until professional medical help can be rendered.