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Penetrating neck injury — DIPIMC MCQ

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HardPre-Hospital TraumaPenetrating neck injuryDIPIMCDipIMC

A man has a stab wound to the left side of the neck. There is an expanding haematoma, his voice has changed, and the external bleeding is currently controlled.

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

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Correct answer: B — Prioritise the airway, anticipating compromise from the expanding haematoma, and arrange rapid transport

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

An expanding neck haematoma with voice change threatens the airway by compression and distortion, so early airway management and rapid transport are the priorities. Probing the wound (A) can dislodge clot, and a circumferential neck dressing (B) is dangerous because it can obstruct the airway and impede venous return. Treat a penetrating neck injury with respect for the airway and do not explore it in the field.

Reference: ATACC; JRCALC Clinical Guidelines