If you encounter a patient shot in the head with no signs of life, what should you do?

When a patient shows no signs of life, especially in a traumatic situation like a gunshot wound to the head, the immediate priority shifts to ensuring the safety of the scene and proper reporting. In this scenario, leaving the scene untouched and contacting the police is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, the preservation of the scene is vital in cases that involve potential criminal activities, such as a shooting. This helps ensure that any evidence remains intact for law enforcement to investigate. By safeguarding the area and not disturbing anything, you allow police and forensic teams to gather necessary evidence without interference.

Secondly, after confirming there are no signs of life, it is often not within the EMT or paramedic's protocol to perform resuscitation measures on a patient with severe trauma who is unresponsive. Protocols typically dictate that in such cases, especially where significant signs of death are present, efforts should focus on the proper documentation and managing the legal aspects of the situation.

While emotional support for the family and determination of next steps is key, prioritizing the scene and involving the authorities promptly adheres to established emergency protocols and respects the investigative process necessary in these tragic circumstances.