Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

A "positive" FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) exam indicates the presence of free fluid in the abdomen, which suggests internal bleeding. This ultrasound examination is specifically utilized in trauma settings to quickly assess whether there is collected fluid, often indicative of hemorrhage due to trauma. The detection of free fluid in the abdominal cavity may prompt urgent surgical intervention to address potential internal injuries.

The FAST exam is a valuable tool in trauma care because it can be performed rapidly at the bedside, allowing for real-time evaluation of a patient's condition. The presence of free fluid can significantly impact treatment decisions, such as the need for further imaging or surgical exploration.

Other options, such as the presence of a fracture or normal intracranial pressure, are not assessed by the FAST exam. Similarly, stable vital signs do not relate directly to the results of a FAST exam, as vital signs may remain stable in a patient who is experiencing significant internal bleeding. Thus, the best understanding of a "positive" FAST exam is that it reveals free fluid in the abdomen that suggests the likelihood of internal bleeding, guiding urgent medical response.