AEMCA Practice Exam

What does code 74 indicate in a medical context?

1. Patient in police custody

2. Patient requires immediate care

3. Patient arrived via ambulance

4. Patient has a do-not-resuscitate order

The correct answer is: Patient in police custody

In a medical context, code 74 indicates that a patient is in police custody. This designation is used to alert healthcare personnel that the individual being treated is under the control of law enforcement, which may impact the medical staff's responsibilities and approach to care. It ensures that the medical team is aware of the potential security implications and can take necessary precautions while providing treatment. The other options refer to different situations. The requirement for immediate care usually corresponds to a separate code or alert indicating urgency in treatment. Similarly, the arrival of a patient via ambulance would typically be indicated by another code, specific to transport, while a do-not-resuscitate order is documented in a different manner to communicate a patient’s wishes regarding resuscitation efforts. In summary, code 74 serves a distinct purpose by clearly identifying a patient's legal status, thereby guiding the healthcare team's response appropriately.