JBL EMT Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of closed-loop communication?

1. EMTs decide not to attempt resuscitation because the patient has rigor mortis and is cold to the touch

2. The EMT corrects the team leader, who states that chest compressions should be greater than 3 inches deep

3. The EMT requests permission from medical control to assist a patient with his prescribed nitroglycerin

4. The team leader assigns the EMT a task, and the EMT repeats the request back to the team leader

The correct answer is: EMTs decide not to attempt resuscitation because the patient has rigor mortis and is cold to the touch

An example of closed-loop communication is when communication is acknowledged and understood by both parties. In this case, only option A demonstrates this as the EMTs come to a decision together based on the patient's condition. Option B shows a correction being made, but it is not clear if the team leader acknowledges the correction. Option C shows a request being made, but it is not clear if the EMT receives permission or if there is any follow-up communication. Option D shows repeated communication, but it is not clear if the request is understood or acknowledged by the team leader. Therefore, option A is the only example of closed-loop communication.