Paramedic National Registry Practice

What is the first appropriate action for a 23-year-old female in her third trimester sitting on the couch rubbing her belly?

1. Transport the patient immediately

2. Ask for patient history

3. Assess fetal heart rate

4. Check for signs of labor

The correct answer is: Ask for patient history

Asking for the patient history is the first appropriate action in this scenario. Gathering the patient's history is crucial because it helps to establish the context of her current condition. Understanding her medical background, any complications during the pregnancy, and the reasons for her current behavior—such as discomfort or concern—will inform the subsequent assessment and care. In a third-trimester pregnancy, there are various factors that could be pertinent to her current state, including past prenatal issues, any symptoms she may be experiencing (like contractions or bleeding), and her overall health. This information is vital for formulating the next steps in management, whether that involves monitoring the fetus, checking for signs of labor, or deciding if immediate transport is necessary. Other actions such as assessing fetal heart rate or checking for signs of labor might be part of the ongoing evaluation, but they depend on first understanding the patient's history and current symptoms. Transporting the patient immediately without this information could overlook critical data that could influence her care and the safety of the fetus.