Neonatal retrieval — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: D — Stabilise and coordinate with the neonatal retrieval service

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · A = shown as B · B = shown as C · E = shown as D · D = shown as E

E is correct: The key management step is early specialist coordination with safe stabilisation before transfer. A is less suitable because it does not address the discriminator in the vignette; B is less suitable because it does not address the discriminator in the vignette; C is less suitable because a detailed survey is inappropriate before correcting an immediate threat; D is less suitable because it does not address the discriminator in the vignette. The most tempting alternative is therefore suboptimal because it either delays the time-critical pre-hospital intervention or sends the patient to the wrong level of care. The key DipIMC principle is focused cABCDE decision-making with early pre-alert, triage or retrieval escalation when the scene physiology demands it.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; NICE Major Trauma Service Delivery NG40; ATACC