ATLS Practice Exam
questions and answers with rationales 2025\2026
1. What is the most important initial step in the primary survey
of a trauma
patient?
A. Disability assessment
B. Airway with cervical spine protection
C. Exposure and environmental control
D. Circulation with hemorrhage control
Rationale: The first step in the primary survey is ensuring a patent
airway with cervical spine protection, as airway obstruction can
quickly lead to death.
2. Which of the following is the preferred site for needle
decompression in a patient with suspected tension
pneumothorax?
A. 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line
B. 5th intercostal space, anterior axillary line
C. 5th intercostal space, midaxillary line
D. 4th intercostal space, posterior axillary line
Rationale: The 5th intercostal space at the midaxillary line is
now preferred due to better success rates, especially in obese
patients, per ATLS 10th edition.
3. A patient arrives with a pelvic fracture and hypotension.
questions and answers with rationales 2025\2026
1. What is the most important initial step in the primary survey
of a trauma
patient?
A. Disability assessment
B. Airway with cervical spine protection
C. Exposure and environmental control
D. Circulation with hemorrhage control
Rationale: The first step in the primary survey is ensuring a patent
airway with cervical spine protection, as airway obstruction can
quickly lead to death.
2. Which of the following is the preferred site for needle
decompression in a patient with suspected tension
pneumothorax?
A. 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line
B. 5th intercostal space, anterior axillary line
C. 5th intercostal space, midaxillary line
D. 4th intercostal space, posterior axillary line
Rationale: The 5th intercostal space at the midaxillary line is
now preferred due to better success rates, especially in obese
patients, per ATLS 10th edition.
3. A patient arrives with a pelvic fracture and hypotension.
