PHTLS Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The PHTLS (Prehospital Trauma Life Support) certification is the gold standard in trauma care education. Recognized worldwide, the NAEMT PHTLS course teaches EMS practitioners critical thinking skills to provide life-saving care to trauma patients in the field.
Our free PHTLS practice test helps you prepare for the PHTLS course final exam. Whether you are taking a PHTLS class for the first time or renewing your Prehospital Trauma Life Support certification, our study materials cover essential topics like airway management, shock, and casualty simulation.
The PHTLS meaning goes beyond a simple acronym; it represents a commitment to excellence in trauma care. The Prehospital Trauma Life Support course integrates the latest evidence-based medical knowledge, including the XABCDE assessment approach, to improve patient outcomes in emergency situations.
Free PHTLS Practice Test Questions
Prepare for your certification with our comprehensive PHTLS practice test modules. These simulations cover the Prehospital Trauma Life Support course curriculum, including kinematics of trauma, airway management, and shock resuscitation.
PHTLS Flashcards
Key concepts for the Prehospital Trauma Life Support Course
PHTLS Exam Study Guide
Our PHTLS study guide breaks down the NAEMT PHTLS course into manageable sections. Review these common questions to understand the PHTLS certification process and exam expectations.
| What is the PHTLS certification? | PHTLS certification validates an EMS provider's ability to assess and manage trauma patients. It emphasizes the "treat as you go" philosophy and critical thinking. |
| Who needs to take the PHTLS course? | The NAEMT PHTLS course is designed for EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, and physicians involved in prehospital trauma care. |
| Does PHTLS provide CE credits? | Yes, completing the PHTLS class typically awards 16 hours of CAPCE-accredited continuing education credits for EMS license renewal. |
| What is the difference between ITLS and PHTLS? | While both ITLS PHTLS cover trauma, PHTLS focuses more on critical thinking and physiology, whereas ITLS is often more algorithm-driven. |
| How many questions are on the PHTLS exam? | The PHTLS test typically consists of 50 multiple-choice questions administered at the end of the course. |
| Is there a practical component to the PHTLS course? | Yes, the PHTLS course includes mandatory skill stations and scenario-based assessments where you must demonstrate trauma management competency. |
| Is the PHTLS test open book? | Generally, the PHTLS final exam is closed book, requiring you to recall knowledge from the PHTLS textbook and course lectures. |
| How long is the PHTLS class? | The traditional PHTLS course is a 16-hour, two-day program. A PHTLS hybrid course option allows for online study followed by one day of skills. |
| How do I register for a PHTLS class? | You can find a PHTLS course near me by visiting the NAEMT website course locator or checking with local EMS training centers. |
| Can I take the PHTLS course online? | You can take the PHTLS course online via the hybrid format, but you must still attend an in-person session for skills verification. |
| What are the prerequisites for PHTLS? | There are no strict prerequisites, but a background as an EMT, paramedic, or healthcare provider is strongly recommended for the PHTLS certification. |
| How much does the PHTLS course cost? | The PHTLS cost varies by training center but typically ranges from $200 to $350, often including the PHTLS book. |
| What is the passing score for PHTLS? | To pass the PHTLS exam, you typically need a score of 76% or higher on the written test and a "Pass" on the skills evaluation. |
| When do I get my PHTLS card? | Upon successful completion, your PHTLS certification card is usually issued immediately or within a few days via the NAEMT portal. |
| How long is PHTLS certification good for? | The PHTLS certification is valid for four years from the date of issue, after which you must take a refresher course. |
| Can I retake the PHTLS test if I fail? | Yes, most training centers allow one retake of the PHTLS written exam immediately or within a short timeframe. |
| Does PHTLS increase paramedic salary? | Holding a PHTLS certification can make you more competitive for higher-paying roles, critical care transport, or flight medic positions. |
| Is PHTLS required for flight medics? | Yes, most air medical services require PHTLS certification or an equivalent trauma course for flight paramedics and nurses. |
| What jobs require PHTLS? | Jobs requiring PHTLS include critical care paramedics, flight medics, tactical EMS, and emergency department nurses in trauma centers. |
| Is PHTLS worth it for EMTs? | Yes, PHTLS for EMT providers enhances trauma assessment skills and is often a requirement for career advancement or paramedic school. |
PHTLS Certification Structure
The PHTLS certification process evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The PHTLS test format ensures providers can apply the "treat as you go" philosophy effectively. Here is the typical breakdown.
Primary and secondary surveys using XABCDE.
- Topics: Scene safety, rapid assessment, critical interventions.
- Questions: ~10-12 questions
Managing compromised airways and ventilation.
- Topics: Suctioning, intubation assistance, needle decompression.
- Questions: ~8-10 questions
Identifying and treating shock states.
- Topics: Hypovolemic shock, permissive hypotension.
- Questions: ~10-12 questions
Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries.
- Topics: Concussion, herniation signs, immobilization.
- Questions: ~8-10 questions
Trauma in pediatrics, geriatrics, and pregnancy.
- Topics: Physiological differences, assessment adjustments.
- Questions: ~5-8 questions
Burns, drowning, and exposure injuries.
- Topics: Rule of nines, thermal management.
- Questions: ~5-8 questions
Focus on the XABCDE assessment algorithm. The PHTLS course emphasizes exsanguinating hemorrhage control (X) before airway (A). Memorizing this sequence is crucial for passing the PHTLS exam and practical scenarios.
PHTLS Score Calculator
Calculate your potential score for the PHTLS certification exam.
PHTLS Salary Information
Obtaining a PHTLS certification can significantly impact an EMS professional's earning potential, especially in specialized roles like flight medicine or critical care.
| Role | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic EMT (PHTLS) | $38,000 | $3,166 | Entry Level |
| Paramedic | $56,000 | $4,666 | 2-5 Years |
| CCT Paramedic | $68,000 | $5,666 | 5+ Years |
| Flight Paramedic | $85,000 | $7,083 | 5-10 Years |
| PHTLS Instructor | $70,000 | $5,833 | Varies |
Earning your PHTLS certification is often a mandatory step for high-paying roles like Critical Care Transport (CCT) and Flight Medicine, where trauma management skills are paramount.
How to Become PHTLS Certified
The path to obtaining your Prehospital Trauma Life Support certification is straightforward but requires dedication. Here is the step-by-step process to completing the PHTLS class.
- Locate a Course - Search for "PHTLS course near me" or check the NAEMT website.
- Choose Format - Decide between a traditional 2-day PHTLS class or a hybrid PHTLS course online with 1-day skills.
- Purchase Materials - Buy the current PHTLS textbook (Prehospital Trauma Life Support 9th or 10th edition).
- Complete Pre-Course Work - Study the manual and complete any required pre-tests or online modules.
- Attend Training - Participate in the in-person PHTLS training for lectures and skills stations.
- Pass Skills Exam - Demonstrate competency in trauma assessment and management scenarios.
- Pass Written Exam - Score 76% or higher on the PHTLS final exam to receive your card.
PHTLS Certification Costs
Understanding the PHTLS cost helps in planning your professional development. Prices vary by training center and region.
Expect to invest between $300 and $400 total for your PHTLS certification, including the PHTLS course fee and textbook. Employers often reimburse these costs.
PHTLS Career Opportunities
Explore how PHTLS certification enhances different EMS and healthcare roles.
PHTLS Testing Contacts
For official questions about the NAEMT PHTLS course or certification status.
Use the NAEMT Course Locator to find a PHTLS course near me. You can filter by state and date to find upcoming PHTLS training sessions.
PHTLS Test Day Checklist
Ace Your PHTLS Exam
Get ready for your PHTLS course with our free practice tools. Whether you need a refresher or full exam prep, we have you covered.
START PHTLS PRACTICE TESTPHTLS Renewal Requirements
The PHTLS certification must be renewed every four years to maintain active status. Here is what you need to know about the PHTLS renewal process.
To renew, you can take a 1-day PHTLS refresher course or the 8-hour PHTLS for First Responders course, depending on your level of licensure.
PHTLS Exam Questions and Answers
You can find a PHTLS course near me by using the NAEMT Course Locator tool on their official website. You can search by country, state, and zip code to find authorized training centers.
Yes, NAEMT offers a hybrid PHTLS course online. This format allows you to complete the didactic portion online at your own pace (8 hours) and then attend a 1-day in-person skills session.
You can perform a PHTLS certification lookup by logging into the NAEMT Member Portal. If you lost your card, you can print a replacement or verify your status there.
The PHTLS course covers kinematics of trauma, assessment (XABCDE), airway management, shock, TBI, spinal trauma, and special populations like pediatrics and geriatrics.
Yes, most centers require you to complete a PHTLS pretest before attending the course. It assesses your baseline knowledge to ensure you are prepared for the advanced content.
The PHTLS cost typically ranges from $200 to $350, which often includes the PHTLS book and certification fees. Hybrid courses may have separate fees for the online module.
Your PHTLS certification is valid for four years. You must complete a PHTLS renewal course or a full provider course before it expires to maintain certification.
The PHTLS exam can be challenging as it requires critical thinking, not just memorization. Using a PHTLS study guide and practicing scenarios helps significantly.
You need the official NAEMT PHTLS book (Prehospital Trauma Life Support), currently in its 10th edition. It is the primary resource for the PHTLS class.
No, PHTLS and ITLS are separate certifications. While both are widely accepted, some employers may prefer one over the other. PHTLS certification is often preferred by NREMT.