Corrections Officer State Certification (SOCE) Practice Exam

What is typically the first step when responding to an abdominal evisceration?

1. Clean the area with antiseptic

2. Cover the protruding organs with a moist dressing

3. Apply a tourniquet to stop any bleeding

4. Secure the patient in a lying position

The correct answer is: Cover the protruding organs with a moist dressing

When responding to an abdominal evisceration, the primary objective is to protect the protruding organs from further injury or contamination. Covering the protruding organs with a moist dressing serves this purpose effectively. A moist dressing helps to prevent dehydration of the organs, reduces the risk of infection, and provides a barrier against external contaminants. This step is crucial because the exposed organs are vulnerable and require immediate attention to maintain their viability until professional medical help can be reached. A moist dressing can also help to minimize shock and discomfort for the patient by providing some level of protection. The other actions, while important in various medical situations, do not directly address the immediate needs posed by an evisceration. Cleaning the area could cause further irritation or risk infection. Applying a tourniquet is specifically relevant for severe limb bleeding and is not appropriate for abdominal evisceration. Securing the patient in a lying position, while beneficial for overall stability and comfort, does not provide the urgent care needed to protect the exposed organs. Thus, covering the organs with a moist dressing is the critical first step in managing this type of injury.