North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What conditions classify a patient as a Priority 1 (Red Tag) in an MCI?

1. Breathing is labored, capillary refill is > 2 seconds

2. Airway obstruction, and inability to follow commands

3. RR over 30, capillary refill > 2 seconds, and cannot follow commands

4. Severe bleeding and signs of shock

The correct answer is: RR over 30, capillary refill > 2 seconds, and cannot follow commands

A patient is classified as a Priority 1 (Red Tag) during a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) when their condition indicates a need for immediate medical attention due to the severity of their injuries or illnesses. In this case, the option referring to a respiratory rate over 30, capillary refill greater than 2 seconds, and an inability to follow commands encompasses critical indicators of a life-threatening situation. A respiratory rate over 30 suggests that the patient is likely experiencing respiratory distress or failure, which requires urgent intervention. A prolonged capillary refill time indicates poor perfusion, suggesting that the patient may be in shock or experiencing a significant drop in blood circulation. Furthermore, an inability to follow commands can signal altered mental status or decreased consciousness, which are both concerning signs in an emergency setting. Combining these three factors—elevated respiratory rate, compromised circulation, and altered mental status—provides a clear picture that immediate care is essential to stabilize the patient and prevent deterioration, which is why this classification as Priority 1 is critical in triaging patients effectively during an MCI.