A 23-year-old male is pacing and has incomprehensible speech.

The correct answer is A. leave the scene.

In EMS, scene safety is the top priority. If a patient becomes violent or poses an immediate threat, the EMT must remove themselves from danger immediately. The situation described—pacing, incomprehensible speech, and throwing a chair—indicates an actively violent and unsafe environment.

Why A is correct:

The patient is demonstrating violent behavior, creating an unsafe scene.

NREMT guidelines emphasize that EMTs should not remain in or enter unsafe scenes.

The correct sequence is to retreat first, then request additional resources such as law enforcement.

Why the other options are incorrect:

B. Apply soft restraints → Restraints should only be applied when the scene is safe and with adequate personnel, often including law enforcement.

C. Request Advanced Life Support → ALS does not address immediate scene safety threats.

D. Request law enforcement → This is appropriate, but only after ensuring your own safety by leaving the scene first.

Exact Extracts:

“Scene safety is the first priority in patient care.”

“If a scene becomes unsafe, the EMT should retreat to a safe location.”

“Do not attempt to restrain a violent patient unless the scene is secure and adequate help is available.”