In what scenario should shoulder pads typically be removed during football injuries?

Shoulder pads should typically be removed when they obstruct airway management because ensuring an open airway is a priority in emergency medical situations. If a player's airway is compromised due to the position of the shoulder pads, removing them can allow for better access and management of the airway, which is critical in traumatic injuries.

While the other scenarios may involve considerations for removing pads, they do not take precedence over the need to secure an airway. For instance, severe head trauma may require stabilization but does not automatically necessitate immediate removal of shoulder pads unless it affects breathing. Similarly, severe injuries may warrant caution, but airway management remains a top priority and may necessitate the removal of impediments. Lastly, waiting for medical personnel may delay necessary interventions in an emergency where airway compromise is at stake. Therefore, the focus on airway management underscores the importance of making that quick decision in the context of trauma care.