Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when responding to a crush injury?

1. Loss of consciousness

2. Potential for compartment syndrome

3. Infection risk

4. Fracture stabilization

The correct answer is: Potential for compartment syndrome

The primary concern when responding to a crush injury is the potential for compartment syndrome. This condition arises when swelling or bleeding occurs within a closed muscle compartment, restricting blood flow and potentially leading to tissue ischemia. In crush injuries, the extensive pressure can cause muscle and vascular damage that raises the risk of this complication. If untreated, compartment syndrome can result in irreversible damage to the muscles and nerves within the affected area, leading to significant long-term consequences such as muscle necrosis, functional impairment, or even limb loss. Awareness and early recognition of signs such as severe pain, numbness, tingling, or diminished pulses are critical to prevent these adverse outcomes. While loss of consciousness, risk of infection, and fracture stabilization are relevant concerns in various trauma situations, they do not encompass the unique and urgent complications posed specifically by crush injuries as directly as the risk of compartment syndrome does.