CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

How frequently should the MRT assess a trauma patient in an imaging department?

1. Every minute

2. Every 5 to 10 minutes

3. Every 15 minutes

4. Every 30 minutes

The correct answer is: Every 5 to 10 minutes

The recommended frequency for assessing a trauma patient in an imaging department is every 5 to 10 minutes due to the critical nature of such patients. Traumatic injuries can lead to rapid changes in the patient’s condition, including vital signs and overall stability. Frequent assessments within this time frame allow the medical imaging technologist to closely monitor for any deterioration and respond swiftly if urgency arises. This practice aligns with standard protocols in trauma care, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention. Assessing more frequently than this, such as every minute, may not be necessary and could lead to over-assessment without providing additional clinical benefit. On the other hand, assessing only every 15 or 30 minutes might not be adequate to catch critical changes in a patient's condition promptly, potentially delaying necessary medical interventions. Thus, the 5 to 10-minute interval strikes a balance between maintaining vigilance and allowing for comprehensive patient care.