skip to main content

Suspension trauma — DipIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardPre-Hospital Trauma ManagementSuspension traumaDipIMC

A 41-year-old patient is suspended in a harness after an industrial fall and has been hanging for 20 minutes. He is conscious but dizzy and complains of leg numbness. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Rescue promptly, keep him under close monitoring and prepare for sudden cardiovascular collapse

Suspension trauma can cause venous pooling and collapse around rescue, so prompt rescue with clinical monitoring is needed. Leaving the patient suspended worsens the mechanism. Routine leg tourniquets are not indicated and may add harm. The pearl is that the rescue phase is clinically hazardous and requires preparation rather than passive waiting.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; ATACC