North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Which of the following scenarios qualifies as a significant MOI?

1. Patient experiencing mild anxiety

2. A fall from a height of 15 feet or more

3. Minor collision while driving

4. Elbow strain during a sports activity

The correct answer is: A fall from a height of 15 feet or more

A fall from a height of 15 feet or more is considered a significant mechanism of injury (MOI) because such falls can lead to serious injuries due to the forces exerted on the body upon impact. In emergency medical services (EMS), significant MOI is typically defined as circumstances that are likely to produce severe trauma or injuries to a patient. Falls from heights, such as 15 feet or more, significantly increase the risk of fractures, head injuries, internal injuries, and other trauma that may not be immediately evident. In contrast, other scenarios like mild anxiety, minor collisions while driving, or an elbow strain during a sporting activity generally do not carry the same risk of severe trauma. Mild anxiety does not impact the physical body in a way that would relate to trauma, while minor collisions and strains are typically associated with less severe outcomes and do not generally indicate a higher risk for serious injuries. Therefore, the choice of a 15-foot fall aligns with established guidelines regarding what constitutes significant trauma risk, underscoring its relevance in emergency medical assessments.