What should an EMT do if a patient has fallen and is conscious but complaining of severe pain?

Performing a thorough assessment is crucial in this scenario, as it allows the EMT to gather vital information about the patient's condition. When a patient has fallen and is conscious but experiencing severe pain, an assessment helps determine the extent of injuries, any potential internal bleeding, and the specific areas where pain is being felt. This includes checking vital signs, conducting a physical exam, and asking the patient about the nature and location of their pain.

This comprehensive evaluation is essential for formulating an appropriate treatment plan and determining the need for transport to a medical facility. By assessing the patient thoroughly, the EMT can ensure that they are addressing any critical issues before making decisions about transport and treatment.

The other options do not align with the standard of care required for such situations. For example, transporting the patient immediately without assessment could overlook serious injuries. Administering strong pain medication is typically outside the scope of practice for EMTs, as it can interfere with further assessments and treatments. Ignoring complaints of pain, even in the absence of visible injuries, can lead to missed diagnoses and inadequate care.