Scene Size-Up & Initial Assessment
What are the four components of a scene size-up?
Ensure scene safety, use PPE, determine MOI/NOI, determine number of victims.
What is the compression to ventilation ratio for a single rescuer performing CPR on an adult?
30 compressions to 2 breaths.
What’s the first step in controlling external bleeding?
Apply direct pressure with a sterile dressing.
What does FAST stand for in stroke recognition?
Face, Arms, Speech, Time.
What are signs of a potential spinal injury in a water setting?
Head-first entry, loss of movement, pain in head/neck/back.
What does EAP stand for?
Emergency Action Plan.
What does the primary assessment help you identify?
Life-threatening conditions (airway, breathing, circulation).
When should you switch from rescue breathing to CPR?
If the victim has no pulse.
When should you use a tourniquet?
If severe bleeding cannot be controlled with direct pressure.
What is the first thing you should do for someone showing signs of shock?
Lay them flat, cover with a blanket, and call EMS.
What is the primary in-water rescue technique for a suspected spinal injury?
Head-splint technique.
When should you complete an incident report?
As soon as possible after the incident is resolved.
What should you do if the victim is unresponsive but breathing normally?
Place them in a side-lying recovery position.
How often should you reassess a victim during rescue breathing?
Every 2 minutes.
What is a sign of internal bleeding?
Tender, swollen, bruised area and signs of shock.
A swimmer becomes confused, pale, and shaky. What should you suspect?
Diabetic emergency – give glucose if responsive and able to swallow.
What should you do if the victim with a suspected spinal injury is face-down but breathing?
Use the head-splint technique to rotate them face-up while maintaining alignment.
What must be included in an incident report?
Who, what, when, where, and actions taken – facts only.
When do you call for EMS during a primary assessment?
Immediately after identifying a life-threatening condition or unresponsiveness.
What is the first thing you do when an AED arrives?
Turn it on and follow the prompts.
What PPE should always be worn when treating bleeding?
Gloves (and eye protection if risk of splatter).
What is anaphylaxis and how is it treated?
A severe allergic reaction; treated with epinephrine and EMS activation.
When can you stop spinal motion restriction?
Only when directed by EMS or if the scene becomes unsafe.
What is your first priority as a professional lifeguard?
Preventing drowning and injuries.
When checking for responsiveness, what technique should you use?
Tap and shout, “Are you OK?”, then check for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
What should you do if the AED says “no shock advised”?
Resume CPR immediately starting with compressions.
What do you do if blood soaks through the first dressing?
Apply another dressing on top without removing the original.
What are common signs of a seizure in the water?
Sudden loss of consciousness, rhythmic movement, potential submersion.
What does a backboard assist require?
At least 2 rescuers: one maintaining in-line stabilization, one guiding the board and securing straps.
How should you handle a situation where a patron refuses care?
Explain possible consequences for not seeking help, document refusal, have them sign a refusal of care form, and witness it if possible.