Which signs indicate gastrointestinal bleeding requiring Protocol 21?

• A. Protocol 27
• B. Protocol 21
• C. Protocol 26
• D. Protocol 32

Answer: (B)

Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding include vomiting blood (hematemesis), black, tarry stools (melena), or bright red blood in the stool (hematochezia), and accompanying symptoms like dizziness, pallor, rapid pulse, or low blood pressure from blood loss. These indicators point to ongoing GI bleeding and possible hypovolemia, which is why Protocol 21 is activated. Protocol 21 is designed for GI hemorrhage, guiding the dispatcher to prioritize assessment, monitoring for shock, rapid transport, and specific instructions to manage the patient’s circulation and keep airway and breathing protected as needed. The other protocols cover different conditions, which is why they aren’t appropriate when these GI bleeding signs are present.