What type of questions are typically answered with short or single-word responses?

Closed-ended questions are specifically designed to elicit responses that are limited in scope, often requiring only a short or single-word answer, such as "yes" or "no." These types of questions frequently end in a specific response format, making them straightforward and easy to quantify. For instance, in a medical context, a closed-ended question could be: “Are you in pain?” which would elicit either a “yes” or “no” response.

This structured approach is beneficial in many scenarios, such as patient assessments, where quick and clear answers are needed to guide immediate care decisions. Other question types, like open-ended questions, allow for more expansive and qualitative responses, encouraging patients to provide detailed narratives about their symptoms or experiences. Survey questions can vary, but they often utilize closed-ended formats for ease of data collection. Descriptive questions typically seek elaborate explanations and details rather than succinct answers.

Therefore, closed-ended questions are essential for gathering specific information rapidly, helping EMTs to assess situations effectively and make informed decisions on patient care.