EMT FINAL
Which of the following statements regarding glucose is correct? Glucose is a complex sugar that rapidly absorbs into the bloodstream. Glucose is a simple sugar that is readily absorbed by the bloodstream. Glucose is given to patients who are suspected of being hyperglycemic. Glucose is usually administered by the EMT via the intravenous route.
Glucose is a simple sugar that is readily absorbed by the bloodstream
You are transporting a 54yearold male in cardiac arrest. An EMR is driving the ambulance as you and your partner attempt to resuscitate the patient. What is the MOST logical way of notifying the hospital? Call the receiving hospital with your cellular phone as you attempt resuscitation. Have the driver contact dispatch and relay the patient information to the hospital. Request that a police officer respond to the hospital to apprise them of your arrival. Wait until you arrive at the hospital and then quickly apprise them of the situation
Have the driver contact dispatch and relay the patient information to the hospital
Which of the following statements regarding a "dedicated line" is MOST correct? It is an exclusive frequency that is used by EMTs to communicate with each other in the field. It is a constantly open line of communication that cannot be accessed by outside users. It is a designated frequency on a portable radio that provides direct access to medical control. It is a constantly open line of communication that is under exclusive control of a single user.
It is a constantly open line of communication that cannot be accessed by outside users
Which of the following statements regarding stridor is MOST correct? It is a whistling sound heard in the lower airway. It is caused by incorrect airway positioning. It is a high pitched, crowing upper airway sound. It suggests the presence of fluid in the lungs.
It is a high pitched, crowing upper airway sound
What is the function of the left atrium? It ejects oxygenated blood into the aorta. It receives oxygenated blood from the lungs. It receives blood from the pulmonary arteries. It receives oxygenated blood from the vena cava.
It receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.
When gathering a patient's medications, you find the following: Isordil, Lasix, Motrin, and Digoxin. Which of these medications can be obtained overthecounter (OTC)? Lasix Motrin Isordil Digoxin
Motrin
An EMS provider who has extensive training in various aspects of advanced life support (ALS) is called a(n): EMT. paramedic. advanced EMT (AEMT). EMR.
Paramedic
Which of the following statements regarding parenteral medications is correct? Tylenol is an example of a parenteral medication because it is taken orally. Parenteral medications are absorbed more quickly than enteral medications. Compared to enteral medications, parenteral medications have fewer side effects. Parenteral medications are absorbed by the body through the digestive system
Parenteral medications are absorbed more quickly than enteral medications
Which of the following statements regarding standing orders is MOST correct? Standing orders have less legal authority than orders given via radio. Standing orders require you to contact medical control first. Standing orders only highlight the care that you may provide. Standing orders should be followed when physician contact is not possible
Standing orders should be followed when physician contact is not possible
Which of the following statements regarding communication with a child is MOST correct? Most children are intrigued by strangers wearing uniforms. Give the child minimal information to avoid scaring him or her. Standing over a child often increases his or her level of anxiety. Unlike adults, children cannot see through lies or deceptions
Standing over a child often increases his or her level of anxiety
Which of the following statements regarding the mechanism of injury (MOI) is correct? A nonsignificant MOI rules out the possibility of serious trauma. The MOI may allow you to predict the severity of a patient's injuries. The exact location of a patient's injuries can be determined by the MOI. A significant MOI always results in patient death or permanent disability
The MOI may allow you to predict the severity of a patient's injuries
Which of the following statements regarding the epinephrine autoinjector is correct? The adult autoinjector delivers 0.5 to 1 mg of epinephrine. The autoinjector delivers epinephrine via the subcutaneous route. The epinephrine autoinjector delivers a preset amount of the drug. EMTs do not need physician authorization to use the autoinjector
The epinephrine autoinjector delivers a preset amount of the drug
Which of the following statements regarding the hypoxic drive is MOST correct? The hypoxic drive stimulates a person to breathe on the basis of low oxygen levels. Chronic carbon dioxide elimination often results in activation of the hypoxic drive. The hypoxic drive serves as the primary stimulus for breathing in healthy individuals. 100% supplemental oxygen will always cause apnea in patients with a hypoxic drive
The hypoxic drive stimulates a person to breathe on the basis of low oxygen levels.
Which of the following statements regarding HIV is correct? It is far more contagious than hepatitis B. It is easily transmittable in the EMS field. HIV is transmitted exclusively via blood. There is no vaccine against HIV infection
There is no vaccine against HIV infection
Which of the following is an example of a brand (trade) name of a drug? Tylenol ibuprofen furosemide nitroglycerin
Tylenol
Which of the following patients is in decompensated shock? a 20yearold female with absent radial pulses and dilated pupils a 23yearold restless male with cool, clammy skin and tachycardia a 28yearold female with pale skin and rapid, shallow respirations
a 20yearold female with absent radial pulses and dilated pupils
Which of the following scenarios does NOT involve the presence of any symptoms? a 44yearold male with abdominal pain and severe dizziness a 49yearold female with blurred vision and ringing in the ears a 55yearold male with a severe headache and 2 days of nausea a 61yearold female who is unconscious with facial cyanosis
a 61yearold female who is unconscious with facial cyanosis
Hyperventilation could be associated with all of the following, EXCEPT: a narcotic overdose. a respiratory infection. an overdose of aspirin. high blood glucose levels.
a narcotic overdose
Which of the following patients does NOT have an altered mental status? a patient with an acute allergic reaction and dizziness a diabetic who opens his eyes when you ask questions a patient with a head injury who is slow to answer questions a patient who overdosed and moans when he is touched
a patient with an acute allergic reaction and dizziness
Information included in a radio report to the receiving hospital should include all of the following, EXCEPT: your perception of the severity of the problem. Answered a preliminary diagnosis of the patient's problem. a brief history of the patient's current problem. a brief summary of the care you provided
a preliminary diagnosis of the patient's problem
Which of the following descriptions MOST accurately portrays emergency medical services (EMS)? a vast network of advanced life support (ALS) providers who provide definitive emergency care in the prehospital setting a team of health care professionals who are responsible for providing emergency care and transportation to the sick and injured a system composed exclusively of emergency medical responders (EMRs) and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who are responsible for providing care to sick and injured patients a team of paramedics and emergency physicians who are responsible for providing emergency care to critically injured patients
a team of health care professionals who are responsible for providing emergency care and transportation to the sick and injured
Clinical signs of compensated shock include all of the following, EXCEPT: cool and clammy skin. absent peripheral pulses. restlessness or anxiety. rapid, shallow breathing.
absent peripheral pulses
The final stage of death and dying is MOST commonly displayed as: anger. denial. depression. acceptance.
acceptance
An alert patient presents with a regular pattern of inhalation and exhalation and breath sounds that are clear and equal on both sides of the chest. These findings are consistent with: an obstructed airway. adequate air exchange. respiratory difficulty. respiratory insufficiency.
adequate air exchange.
When administering supplemental oxygen to a hypoxemic patient with a chronic lung disease, you should: recall that most patients with chronic lung diseases are stimulated to breathe by increased carbon dioxide levels. adjust the flow rate accordingly until you see symptom improvement, but be prepared to assist his or her ventilations. begin with a low oxygen flow rate, even if the patient is unresponsive, because highflow oxygen may depress his or her breathing. avoid positive pressure ventilation because the majority of patients with chronic lung disease are at increased risk for lung trauma.
adjust the flow rate accordingly until you see symptom improvement, but be prepared to assist his or her ventilations
While assisting a paramedic in the attempted resuscitation of a 55yearold male in cardiac arrest, you should expect the paramedic to: give the patient nitroglycerin to increase his blood pressure. administer drugs via the I route to achieve the fastest effect. give the patient activated charcoal to rule out a drug overdose. withhold drug therapy until an intraosseous catheter is in place
administer drugs via the I route to achieve the fastest effect
A 60 year old man complains of chest pain. He is conscious and alert and denies shortness of breath. Which of the following questions would be the MOST appropriate to ask him? "Were you exerting yourself when the chest pain began?" "Does the pain in your chest move to either of your arms?" "Does the pain in your chest feel like a stabbing sensation?" "Do you have any heart problems or take any medications?"
"Do you have any heart problems or take any medications?"
Which of the following statements is NOT appropriate to document in the narrative section of a PCR? "General impression revealed that the patient was intoxicated." "Significant damage was noted to the front end of the vehicle." "The patient admits to smoking marijuana earlier in the day." "After oxygen was administered, the patient's breathing improved."
"General impression revealed that the patient was intoxicated."
You are interviewing a 52yearold man who complains of chest discomfort. The patient is a retired paramedic and is very anxious because he thinks he is having a heart attack. Which of the following statements would be appropriate to say? "It is possible that you are experiencing a heart attack. I am going to give you four baby aspirin to chew and swallow." "I notice that you are a retired paramedic, so I'm sure you will understand all of the things that we will be doing to you." "This is nothing to worry about. Please try to stay calm. The physician at the hospital will probably not find any signs of a heart problem." "We need to take you to the ED stat. We will give you ASA and NTG en route and then reassess your vitals. Do you have any questions?"
"I notice that you are a retired paramedic, so I'm sure you will understand all of the things that we will be doing to you."
The normal respiratory rate for an adult should range from: 10 to 15 breaths per minute. 12 to 20 breaths per minute. 18 to 24 breaths per minute. 24 to 28 breaths per minute.
12 to 20 breaths per minute
A 29yearold male with a head injury opens his eyes when you speak to him, is confused as to the time and date, and is able to move all of his extremities on command. His Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is: 10. 12. 13. 14.
13.
In infants and children, a capillary refill time (CRT) that is greater than ______ second(s) is a sign of poor peripheral perfusion. 1 2 3 4
2
Which of the following is MOST characteristic of adequate breathing? 22 breaths/min with an irregular pattern of breathing and cyanosis 20 breaths/min with shallow movement of the chest wall and pallor 24 breaths/min with bilaterally equal breath sounds and pink skin 30 breaths/min with supraclavicular retractions and clammy skin
24 breaths/min with bilaterally equal breath sounds and pink skin
Normal respiratory rates should not exceed _______ breaths per minute in children and _______ breaths per minute in infants. 18, 28 20, 30 24, 45 30, 50
30, 50
You arrive at a residence approximately 20 minutes after a 7yearold boy, who weighs 22 kg, ingested a bottle of Advil. He is conscious and alert and has stable vital signs. Medical control orders you to administer activated charcoal and oxygen and then transport the child at once. The appropriate maximum dose of activated charcoal for this child is: 11 g. 22 g. 36 g. 44 g.
44 g
With the flowmeter set at 6 L/min, the nasal cannula will deliver up to _______ oxygen. 14% 24% 34% 44%
44%
Which of the following statements regarding a patient refusal is MOST correct? A patient who consumed a few beers will likely be able to refuse EMS treatment. Advice given to a patient who refuses EMS treatment should not be documented. A mentally competent adult has the legal right to refuse EMS care and transport. Documentation of proposed care is unnecessary if the patient refuses treatment
A mentally competent adult has the legal right to refuse EMS care and transport
Which of the following skills or interventions is included at every level of pre hospital emergency training? oral glucose for hypoglycemia AED intranasal medication administration use of a manually triggered ventilator
AED
Which of the following statements regarding the metereddose inhaler (MDI) is correct? MDIs are contraindicated for patients with asthma or emphysema. MDIs are most commonly used by patients with cardiovascular disease. An MDI delivers the same amount of medication every time it is used. Shaking an MDI prior to use will cause deactivation of the medication.
An MDI delivers the same amount of medication every time it is used
Which of the following statements regarding anaphylaxis is correct? Patients with asthma are at lower risk of developing anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is characterized by airway swelling and hypotension. Most anaphylactic reactions occur within 60 minutes after exposure. The signs of anaphylaxis are caused by widespread vasoconstriction
Anaphylaxis is characterized by airway swelling and hypotension
Vectorborne transmission of an infectious organism occurs via: animals or insects. smoke or dust. direct contact. inanimate objects.
Animals or insects
Which of the following pupillary changes would indicate depressed brain function? Both pupils dilate when a bright light is removed. Both pupils constrict when a bright light is introduced. Both pupils react briskly to light instead of sluggishly. Both pupils dilate with introduction of a bright light.
Both pupils dilate with introduction of a bright light.
The determination that prompt surgical care in the hospital is more important than performing time consuming procedures in the field on a major trauma patient is based MOSTLY on: EMS research. local protocols. the lead EMT's decision. regional trauma guidelines.
EMS research
Which of the following statements regarding anaphylactic shock is MOST correct? Anaphylactic shock occurs immediately after a person is sensitized to an allergen. Sensitized people will experience less severe reactions upon subsequent exposure. Anaphylactic shock is the result of immune system failure due to a toxic exposure. Each subsequent exposure following sensitization often produces a more severe reaction
Each subsequent exposure following sensitization often produces a more severe reaction
You and your partner are attempting to resuscitate a middle aged female in cardiac arrest. Because of the remote location you are in, you are unable to contact medical control. What should you do? Perform CPR only and initiate immediate transport. Make continuous attempts to contact medical control. Ask the husband if he wants to continue resuscitation. Follow locally established protocols or standing orders
Follow locally established protocols or standing orders.
You are treating a 45yearold woman who was stung by a hornet and has a rash. She tells you that she is allergic to hornets and has her own epinephrine autoinjector. She also tells you that she takes medication for hypertension. Her breath sounds do not reveal any wheezing, her breathing is unlabored, and her blood pressure is 154/94 mm Hg. What should you do if you are not able to make contact with medical control? Administer her epinephrine, reassess her condition, and transport her promptly. Begin immediate transport and request an intercept with a paramedic ambulance. Give her oxygen, transport her to the hospital, and monitor her condition en route. Give her half the dose of her epinephrine in case her allergic reaction is delayed
Give her oxygen, transport her to the hospital, and monitor her condition en route
A patient who does not respond to your questions but moves or cries out when his or her trapezius muscle is pinched, is said to be: conscious and alert. completely unresponsive. responsive to verbal stimuli. responsive to painful stimuli
responsive to painful stimuli
A 75yearold male with a terminal illness has died at home. As you and your partner enter the residence, a family member becomes verbally abusive, pushes you, and states that you took too long to get there. You should: retreat and notify law enforcement personnel. tell the family member that it is not your fault. subdue the family member until the police arrive. ignore the family member and assess the patient
retreat and notify law enforcement personnel
Deoxygenated blood from the body returns to the: right atrium. right ventricle. left atrium. left ventricle.
right atrium
What type of communications equipment functions as a radio receiver and searches across several frequencies? scanner duplex station simplex station mobile repeater
scanner
Which of the following signs of respiratory distress is seen MOST commonly in pediatric patients? seesaw breathing rapid respirations pursedlip breathing accessory muscle use
seesaw breathing
A 70yearold female was recently discharged from the hospital following a total hip replacement. Today, she presents with restlessness, tachycardia, and a blood pressure of 100/64 mm Hg. Her skin is warm and moist. You should be MOST suspicious that she is experiencing: septic shock. pump failure. a local infection. decompensated shock.
septic shock
Dyspnea is MOST accurately defined as: shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. a complete cessation of respiratory effort. a marked increase in the exhalation phase. labored breathing with reduced tidal volume
shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
After taking diphendydramine (Benadryl) for an allergic reaction, a person begins experiencing drowsiness and a dry mouth. These findings are an example of a(n): side effect. untoward effect. therapeutic effect. unpredictable effect.
side effect
Two way communication that requires the EMT to "push to talk" and "release to listen" describes what mode of communication? duplex simplex multiplex mediplex
simplex
The electrical impulse generated by the heart originates in the: bundle of His. coronary sinus. sinoatrial (SA) node. atrioventricular (AV) node.
sinoatrial (SA) node
You could be sued for ___________ if your radio report to the hospital describes the patient in a manner that injures his or her reputation. libel assault slander negligence
slander
In contrast to the sympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system: prepares the body to handle stress. causes an increase in the heart rate. slows the heart and respiratory rates. dilates the blood vessels in the muscles
slows the heart and respiratory rates
A 59yearold male with a history of emphysema complains of an acute worsening of his dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain following a forceful cough. Your assessment reveals that he has a barrel shaped chest, unilaterally diminished breath sounds, and tachycardia. What is the MOST likely cause of this patient's condition? rupture of the diaphragm exacerbation of his COPD Answered acute pulmonary embolism spontaneous pneumothorax
spontaneous pneumothorax
The standards for prehospital emergency care and the individuals who provide it are typically regulated by the: state office of EMS. regional trauma center. American Heart Association. National Registry of EMTs.
state office of EMS.
Which of the following abnormal breath sounds indicates obstruction of the upper airway? rales stridor crackles rhonchi
stridor
A crackling sound produced by air bubbles under the skin is called: crepitus rhonchi. Korotkoff sounds. subcutaneous emphysema
subcutaneous emphysema
How is nitroglycerin usually given by the EMT? orally inhaled injected sublingually
sublingually
After performing a head tilt-chin lift maneuver to open the airway of an unresponsive patient who has a pulse, you should: place him or her in the recovery position. provide positivepressure ventilatory assistance. assess respiratory rate, depth, and regularity. suction as needed and insert an airway adjunct
suction as needed and insert an airway adjunct
Activated charcoal is an example of a(n): suspension. solution. elixir. gel.
suspension
The pressure exerted against the walls of the artery when the left ventricle contracts is called the: blood pressure. systolic pressure. diastolic pressure. pulse pressure.
systolic pressure
All of the following conditions would make you suspect shock, EXCEPT: anaphylaxis. heart attack. severe infection. tachycardia.
tachycardia
Common signs and symptoms of acute hyperventilation syndrome include: altered mental status and bradycardia. unilateral paralysis and slurred speech. anxiety, dizziness, and severe bradypnea. Answered tachypnea and tingling in the extremities
tachypnea and tingling in the extremities
After sizing up the scene of a patient with a possible infectious disease, your next priority should be to: contact medical control. take standard precautions. quickly access the patient. notify law enforcement.
take standard precautions
While on duty, your partner asks you out on a date and touches you in an inappropriate location without your consent. You should: tell your partner to quit kidding around and focus on his or her job. warn your partner that you will report him or her if it happens again. notify law enforcement personnel and have your partner arrested. tell your partner to stop and report the incident to your supervisor
tell your partner to stop and report the incident to your supervisor
When the myocardium requires more oxygen: the heart contracts with less force. the arteries supplying the heart dilate. the heart rate decreases significantly. the AV node conducts fewer impulses.
the arteries supplying the heart dilate
After being dispatched on an emergency call, you should expect the dispatcher to provide you with all of the following information, EXCEPT: the time at which your unit was dispatched. the number of patients involved in the incident. other agencies that are responding to the scene. Answered the general geographic location of the incident
the general geographic location of the incident
Typical components of an oral patient report include all of the following, EXCEPT: the chief complaint or mechanism of injury. important medical history not previously given. Answered the set of baseline vital signs taken at the scene. the patient's response to treatment you provided
the set of baseline vital signs taken at the scene
The term "pharmacology" is MOST accurately defined as: the study of drugs that are produced illegally. the study of how medications affect the brain. the study of drugs and their actions on the body. the study of drug excretion from the human body
the study of drugs and their actions on the body
Which of the following medication routes delivers a drug through the skin over an extended period of time, such as a nitroglycerin or nicotine patch? sublingual intraosseous subcutaneous transcutaneous
transcutaneous
If you are exposed to a patient's blood or other bodily fluid, your first action should be to: report the incident to the infection control officer. abandon patient care and seek medical attention. transfer care of your patient to another EMS provider. vigorously clean the area with soap and water.
transfer care of your patient to another EMS provider
During an EMS call, you should take standard precautions: any time before you load the patient into the ambulance. after it has been determined that the patient is bleeding. immediately after completion of your primary assessment. upon exiting the ambulance, but before actual patient contact
upon exiting the ambulance, but before actual patient contact
You and your partner are dispatched to a residence for an "ill person." When you arrive, you find that the patient, a 44 year old man, does not speak English. There are no relatives or bystanders present who can act as an interpreter. You should: give the patient oxygen, assess his vital signs, and transport him to the hospital in a position of comfort. speak to the patient with a moderately louder voice to facilitate his ability to understand what you are saying. use short, simple questions and point to specific parts of your body to try to determine the source of the patient's complaint. refrain from performing any assessment or treatment until you can contact someone who can function as an interpreter.
use short, simple questions and point to specific parts of your body to try to determine the source of the patient's complaint
While at the scene of a motor vehicle crash, you determine that there are two critically injured patients and that another ambulance is needed. You attempt to contact the dispatcher with your portable radio but are unsuccessful. You should: reattempt to contact dispatch from an area of higher terrain. place both patients in the ambulance and transport at once. ask a police officer to call dispatch with his portable radio. use the mobile radio in the ambulance to contact dispatch
use the mobile radio in the ambulance to contact dispatch
When communicating information over the radio, you should: respond professionally by saying "please" and "thank you." use the words "affirmative" and "negative" instead of "yes" or "no." limit any single transmission to 60 seconds or less and use 10 codes. use the patient's name only when communicating with the hospital
use the words "affirmative" and "negative" instead of "yes" or "no."
General guidelines for effective radio communications include all of the following, EXCEPT: speaking in a clear, calm, monotone voice. acknowledging a transmission as soon as possible. using 10 codes to ensure radio traffic confidentiality. holding the microphone about 2" to 3" from your mouth
using 10 codes to ensure radio traffic confidentiality
The simplest yet most effective method of preventing the spread of an infectious disease is to: undergo an annual physical examination. ensure that your immunizations are up to date. wash your hands in between patient contacts. undergo human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing at least twice a year.
wash your hands in between patient contacts
Which of the following clinical signs is unique to anaphylactic shock? pallor dizziness wheezing hypotension
wheezing
When is it MOST appropriate to consider requesting additional ambulances at an accident scene? after you have triaged all the critical patients when you determine there are multiple patients after noncritical patients have been identified when all the deceased patients are accounted for
when you determine there are multiple patients
Distributive shock occurs when: an injury causes restriction of the heart muscle and impairs its pumping function severe bleeding causes tachycardia in order to distribute blood to the organs faster. temporary but severe vasodilation causes a decrease in blood supply to the brain. widespread dilation of the blood vessels causes blood to pool in the vascular beds.
widespread dilation of the blood vessels causes blood to pool in the vascular beds.
Supplemental oxygen via nonrebreathing mask should be administered to patients: who are semiconscious with shallow respirations. with rapid respirations and a reduced tidal volume. Answered who have accessory muscle use and slow breathing. with difficulty breathing and adequate tidal volume
with difficulty breathing and adequate tidal volume
Ten days after treating a 34yearold patient with tuberculosis, you are given a tuberculin skin test, which yields a positive result. This MOST likely indicates that: you are actively infected with tuberculosis and should be treated immediately. the disease is dormant in your body, but will probably never cause symptoms. you contracted the disease by casual contact instead of exposure to secretions. you were exposed to another infected person prior to treating the 34yearold patient.
you were exposed to another infected person prior to treating the 34yearold patient
An index of suspicion is MOST accurately defined as: the EMT's prediction of the type of illness a patient has based on how the call is dispatched. your awareness and concern for potentially serious underlying and unseen injuries or illness. ruling out specific medical conditions based on the absence of certain signs and symptoms. determining the underlying cause of a patient's medical condition based on signs and symptoms
your awareness and concern for potentially serious underlying and unseen injuries or illness
As an EMT, you may be authorized to administer aspirin to a patient with chest pain based on: the patient's condition. your local EMS protocols. an order from a paramedic. the transport time to the hospital.
your local EMS protocols
You are dispatched to a state park for a young female experiencing an allergic reaction. Your assessment reveals that her breathing is severely labored and her blood pressure is very low. You carry epinephrine autoinjectors on your ambulance and have been trained and approved by your medical director to administer them. As your partner gives the patient highflow oxygen, you attempt to contact medical control but do not have a signal from your cell phone. You should: notify dispatch and request that a paramedic unit respond to the scene so they can administer epinephrine to the patient. administer epinephrine to the patient, begin immediate transport, and attempt to contact medical control en route to the hospital. elevate the patient's legs 6 to 12, keep her warm, begin transport to the hospital, and request a paramedic intercept en route. immediately load the patient into the ambulance, begin transport, and reattempt to contact medical control when you receive a cell signal.
administer epinephrine to the patient, begin immediate transport, and attempt to contact medical control en route to the hospital
Your primary assessment of an elderly woman reveals that she is conscious and alert, but is experiencing difficulty breathing. She has a history of emphysema, hypertension, and congestive heart failure. As you assess the patient's circulatory status, you should direct your partner to: perform a headtotoe secondary assessment. assess her oxygen saturation and blood pressure. retrieve the stretcher and prepare for transport. administer oxygen with the appropriate device
administer oxygen with the appropriate device
The process of binding or sticking to a surface is called: adsorption. absorption. suspension. digestion.
adsorption
Medical control gives you an order that seems inappropriate for the patient's condition. After confirming that you heard the physician correctly, you should: carry out the order and then carefully document it on the run form. advise the physician that the order is unclear and ask for clarification. state that you will not carry out the order because it is inappropriate. obtain consent from the patient and then carry out the order as usual.
advise the physician that the order is unclear and ask for clarification
An elderly patient has fallen and hit her head. You assess her level of consciousness as unresponsive using the AVPU scale. Your initial care should focus on: obtaining baseline vital signs. gathering medical history data. providing immediate transport. airway, breathing, and circulation
airway, breathing, and circulation
During your assessment of a 20yearold man with a severe headache and nausea, you ask him when his headache began, but he does not answer your question immediately. You should: repeat your question because he probably did not hear you. allow him time to think about the question and respond to it. ask him if he frequently experiences severe headaches and nausea. tell him that you cannot help him unless he answers your questions
allow him time to think about the question and respond to it.
In what area of the lungs does respiration occur? alveoli trachea bronchi capillaries
alveoli
A patient's refusal for EMS treatment and/or transport must be: an informed refusal. authorized by a judge. reported to the police. witnessed by a notary.
an informed refusal
You and your partner respond to the residence of a 66year old male with shortness of breath. As you are assessing the patient, his wife tells you that he was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. The patient is verbally abusive and tells you that failure of the health care system caused his disease. What stage of the grieving process is this patient's behavior consistent with? denial anger bargaining depression
anger
You are transporting a 40 year old male with respiratory distress. The patient tells you that he recently had a positive tuberculosis (TB) skin test and is currently being evaluated for possible TB. You should: apply a nonrebreathing mask on the patient and a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) respirator on yourself. remain at least 3 feet away from the patient and apply a surgical mask on him. apply a sterile surgical mask on yourself and a HEPA respirator on the patient. apply a nasal cannula on the patient and a sterile surgical mask on yourself
apply a nonrebreathing mask on the patient and a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) respirator on yourself.
You respond to a residence for a patient with a severe leg injury following an accident with a chainsaw. When you arrive, you find the patient, a 44yearold male, lying supine in the backyard. He has a partial amputation of his right lower leg that is actively bleeding. The patient is conscious and breathing adequately; however, he is restless and his skin is diaphoretic. You should: immediately evaluate his airway. apply direct pressure to the wound. assess the rate and quality of his pulse. administer 100% supplemental oxygen.
apply direct pressure to the wound
You are assessing a 75yearold woman with mild shortness of breath. As you are asking her questions regarding her chief complaint and medical history, you progressively move closer and closer to her. In doing this, it is important to remember that: placing yourself in the patient's personal space is relaying to her that you can be trusted. as you physically get closer to the patient, a greater and greater sense of trust must be established. it is necessary to enter an older person's intimate space because the elderly are typically hearing impaired. a patient's personal space should not be violated, regardless of any barriers that may hamper communication
as you physically get closer to the patient, a greater and greater sense of trust must be established.
Despite numerous, sincere efforts to convince a 40yearold man to consent to EMS treatment and transport, he refuses. After explaining the potential consequences of his refusal and determining that he has decisionmaking capacity, you ask him to sign an EMS refusal form, but he refuses to do that as well. You should: sign the refusal form, include the date and time, and have your partner witness it with his or her signature. document the patient's refusal, but leave the refusal form blank because only the patient can legally sign it. advise the patient that unless he signs the refusal form, he cannot legally refuse EMS treatment or transport. ask a family member, law enforcement officer, or bystander to sign the form verifying that the patient refused to sign
ask a family member, law enforcement officer, or bystander to sign the form verifying that the patient refused to sign
A 49yearold male with an extensive cardiac history presents with 2 hours of crushing chest pain and shortness of breath. He is pale and diaphoretic and tells you that he feels like he is going to die. His medications include nitroglycerin, sildenafil (iagra), and enalapril (asotec). His blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg and his heart rate is 110 beats/min. In addition to administering 100% oxygen, you should: obtain physician approval to give the nitroglycerin. place him in a supine position and transport at once. administer one nitroglycerin and call medical control. ask him if he took his viagra within the past 24 hours
ask him if he took his viagra within the past 24 hours
A 58yearold man complains of chest discomfort and nausea. He is conscious and alert; his blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg, his pulse is 104 beats/min, and his respirations are 16 breaths/min. Your partner has applied supplemental oxygen. Prior to assisting the patient with one of his prescribed nitroglycerin tablets, you ask him if he takes medication to treat erectile dysfunction and he tells you that he does. You should: avoid giving him nitroglycerin and transport him at once. ask him what he takes, how much, and when he last took it. recall that erectile dysfunction drugs can cause hypertension if given with nitroglycerin. administer his nitroglycerin and then reassess his blood pressure.
ask him what he takes, how much, and when he last took it
Which of the following will MOST reliably allow you to determine the nature of a patient's illness? trending of the patient's vital signs over time asking questions related to the chief complaint refraining from asking openended questions focusing solely on how the call is dispatched
asking questions related to the chief complaint
Which of the following is an example of a drug's generic name? Bayer Advil Excedrin aspirin
aspirin
A 62yearold male presents with crushing chest pain, which he describes as being the same kind of pain that he had with a previous heart attack. He has prescribed nitroglycerin but states that he has not taken any. After administering 100% oxygen and contacting medical control, you should: begin immediate transport and request a rendezvous with a paramedic unit. assist him with his nitroglycerin unless his systolic blood pressure is less than 100 mm Hg. administer up to three doses of nitroglycerin before assessing his blood pressure. administer the nitroglycerin unless he has taken viagra within the past 72 hours
assist him with his nitroglycerin unless his systolic blood pressure is less than 100 mm Hg
A construction worker fell approximately 30 feet. He is semiconscious with rapid, shallow respirations. Further assessment reveals deformity to the thoracic region of his spine. His blood pressure is 70/50 mm Hg, his pulse is 66 beats/min and weak, and his skin is warm and dry. In addition to spinal immobilization and rapid transport, the MOST appropriate treatment for this patient includes: oxygen via nonrebreathing mask, blankets for warmth, and elevation of his head assisted ventilation, thermal management, and elevation of the lower extremities. oxygen via nonrebreathing mask, thermal management, and elevation of his legs assisted ventilation, preventing hyperthermia, and elevating his lower extremities
assisted ventilation, preventing hyperthermia, and elevating his lower extremities
A 37yearold male is found unconscious in his car. His airway is patent and his respirations are rapid and labored. As you and your partner are assessing and treating the patient, a police officer hands you a medication named Alupent, which he found in the backseat of the patient's car. This medication suggests that the patient has a history of: asthma. heart disease. hypertension. allergic reactions.
asthma
Upon initial contact with a patient who appears to be unconscious, you should: assess breathing depth and determine the respiratory rate. squeeze the trapezius muscle to see if the patient responds. attempt to elicit a verbal response by talking to the patient. direct your partner to apply oxygen via nonrebreathing mask
attempt to elicit a verbal response by talking to the patient
Which of the following is the MOST effective method of assessing the quality of air movement in the lungs? evaluating the patient's chest for cyanosis applying a pulse oximeter and monitoring the SpO2 auscultating breath sounds with a stethoscope looking for the presence of accessory muscle use
auscultating breath sounds with a stethoscope
An EMT may administer aspirin to a patient if: the patient is currently experiencing hypotension. authorization from medical control has been obtained. transport time to the hospital is greater than 30 minutes. the patient is believed to be experiencing an acute stroke.
authorization from medical control has been obtained.
The ability of cardiac muscle cells to contract spontaneously without a stimulus from a nerve source is called: excitability. contractility. impulsivity. automaticity.
automaticity.
The electrical stimulus that originates in the heart's primary pacemaker is controlled by impulses from the brain that arrive by way of the: parietal lobe. pons and medulla. somatic nervous system. autonomic nervous system
autonomic nervous system
When palpating the carotid pulse of a responsive older patient, you should: avoid compressing both carotid arteries simultaneously. ensure that his or her head is in a hyperextended position. avoid gentle pressure so that weak pulses can be detected. firmly compress the artery because the pulse is often weak
avoid compressing both carotid arteries simultaneously
Which of the following MOST accurately describes septic shock? bacterial infection of the nervous system with widespread vasodilation widespread vasoconstriction and plasma loss due to a severe viral infection bacterial damage to the vessel wall, leaking blood vessels, and vasodilation viral infection of the blood vessels, vascular damage, and vasoconstriction
bacterial damage to the vessel wall, leaking blood vessels, and vasodilation
Any radio hardware containing a transmitter and receiver that is located in a fixed location is called a: repeater. multiplex. mobile radio. base station.
base station
An adult patient who is NOT experiencing difficulty breathing will: be able to speak in complete sentences without unusual pauses. assume a position that will facilitate effective and easy breathing. exhibit an indentation above the clavicles and in between the ribs. have a respiratory rate that is between 20 and 24 breaths/min
be able to speak in complete sentences without unusual pauses
When you shine a light into one pupil, the normal reaction of the other pupil should be to: dilate. not react. become larger. become smaller.
become smaller
Subcutaneous injections deliver the medication: directly into the muscle tissue. between the skin and the muscle. below the first layer of muscle. in the mucosa under the tongue.
between the skin and the muscle.
A medication with antagonistic properties is one that: stimulates receptor sites and allows other chemicals to attach to them. enhances the effects of another medication when given in a higher dose. blocks receptor sites and prevents other chemicals from attaching to them. produces a cumulative effect when mixed with the same type of medication
blocks receptor sites and prevents other chemicals from attaching to them
When perfusion to the core of the body decreases: blood is shunted away from the skin. decreased cardiac contractility occurs. blood is diverted to the gastrointestinal tract. the voluntary nervous system releases hormones
blood is shunted away from the skin
When assessing a patient with signs and symptoms of shock, it is MOST important to remember that: the patient's respirations are deep during the early stages of shock. blood pressure may be the last measurable factor to change in shock. multiple fractures are the most common cause of hypovolemic shock. irreversible shock often responds well to a prompt blood transfusion
blood pressure may be the last measurable factor to change in shock
The inferior vena cava returns deoxygenated blood to the right side of the heart from all of the following areas, EXCEPT the: brain. kidneys. abdomen. legs.
brain
When relaying patient information via radio, communications should be: brief and easily understood. coded and scripted. spoken in a loud voice. lengthy and complete.
brief and easily understood.
In what manner should you act and speak with a patient? passive authoritative loud and official calm and confident
calm and confident
Medications encased in a gelatin shell taken by mouth are called: pills. tablets. caplets. capsules.
capsules.
One of the primary waste products of normal cellular metabolism that must be removed from the body by the lungs is: lactic acid. carbon dioxide. pyruvic acid. carbon monoxide.
carbon dioxide
Which of the following incidents does NOT require a report to be filed with local authorities? spousal abuse animal bites cardiac arrest gunshot wounds
cardiac arrest
Which of the following injuries would MOST likely cause obstructive shock? liver laceration cardiac tamponade simple pneumothorax spinal cord injury
cardiac tamponade
A 56yearold male is found semiconscious by his wife. Your assessment reveals that his respirations are rapid and shallow, his pulse is rapid and irregular, and his blood pressure is low. The patient's wife states that he complained of left arm pain and nausea the day before, but would not allow her to call 911. The MOST likely cause of this patient's present condition is: acute myocardial infarction. cardiogenic hypoperfusion. severe septic hypoperfusion. a ruptured aortic aneurysm
cardiogenic hypoperfusion
Pulmonary edema and impaired ventilation occur during: septic shock. neurogenic shock. cardiogenic shock. anaphylactic shock.
cardiogenic shock.
When assessing an elderly male who complains of nausea and generalized weakness, you find that he takes simvastatin (ytorin) and clopidogrel (Plavix). This medication regimen suggests a history of: bacterial infection. cardiovascular disease. reactive airway disease. non insulin dependent diabetes
cardiovascular disease
In addition to looking for severe bleeding, assessment of circulation in the conscious patient should involve: palpating the carotid pulse to determine the approximate rate and checking capillary refill time. taking a blood pressure and determining if the patient is alert and oriented or confused. applying a pulse oximeter probe to the finger to determine if peripheral perfusion is adequate. checking the radial pulse and noting the color, temperature, and condition of his or her skin
checking the radial pulse and noting the color, temperature, and condition of his or her skin
When you begin an oral report, you should state the patient's age, sex, and: chief complaint. any known allergies. past medical history. the emergency care given
chief complaint
Your EMS system uses a computerized PCR in which you fill in the information electronically and then send it to the emergency department via a secure Internet server. The PCR has a comprehensive series of dropdown boxes, which are used to identify your assessment findings and specify the treatment that you provided; it also has a section for your narrative. When completing your PCR after a call, you should: defer the narrative only if the information in the dropdown boxes accurately reflects the assessment and treatment that you performed. complete a thorough and accurate narrative because drop down boxes cannot provide all of the information that needs to be documented. enter all of the pertinent information of the electronic PCR, but then print it out and provide a copy to the emergency department staff. avoid documenting personally identifiable information, such as the patient's name, because the PCR could be intercepted during transmission.
complete a thorough and accurate narrative because drop down boxes cannot provide all of the information that needs to be documented
You are treating a middleaged man with chest discomfort. He has a history of three previous heart attacks and takes nitroglycerin as needed for chest pain. You have standing orders to administer aspirin to patients with suspected cardiacrelated chest pain or discomfort. While your partner is preparing to give oxygen to the patient, you should: confirm that the patient is not allergic to aspirin, give him the appropriate dose of aspirin, and document the time and dose given. contact medical control, apprise him or her of the patient's chief complaint and vital signs, and request permission to give him aspirin. ensure that the patient's systolic blood pressure is at least 100 mm Hg since aspirin dilates the blood vessels and can cause a drop in blood pressure. assist the patient in taking one of his prescribed nitroglycerin, assess his vital signs, and give him aspirin if he is still experiencing chest discomfort.
confirm that the patient is not allergic to aspirin, give him the appropriate dose of aspirin, and document the time and dose given
Immediately after being dispatched to a residence for an elderly patient with diabetic complications, you should: confirm with dispatch that you received the call information. ask the dispatcher to obtain a medical history from the caller. ask the dispatcher if the patient is conscious or unconscious. request that law enforcement secure the scene before you arrive.
confirm with dispatch that you received the call information
A 4yearold boy had an apparent seizure. He is conscious and calm and is sitting on his mother's lap. His father is sitting in a nearby chair. The child's mother suddenly begins crying uncontrollably, which causes the child to start crying. You should: consider asking the father to hold the child so you can assess him while your partner tries to calm the mother. give the child a favorite toy or blanket to hold onto and perform your assessment to the best of your ability. reassure the child's mother that seizures in children are very common and that there is nothing to worry about. attempt to calm the child's mother, but avoid separating her from her child because this will increase her anxiety
consider asking the father to hold the child so you can assess him while your partner tries to calm the mother
All information recorded on the PCR must be: typewritten or printed. considered confidential. a matter of public record. reflective of your opinion
considered confidential
Ethnocentrism is defined as: understanding that people from different cultural backgrounds respond to pain and stress differently. suspecting that a person has an ulterior motive based on the tone of his or her voice when answering a question. subconsciously forcing your cultural values onto a patient because you feel that yours are more acceptable. considering your own cultural values as more important when interacting with people of a different culture.
considering your own cultural values as more important when interacting with people of a different culture
When you inspect a patient's pupils with a penlight, the pupils should normally react to the light by: constricting. enlarging. dilating. fluttering.
constricting
You are dispatched to a movie theater for a 39yearold female with signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. As you are assessing her, she pulls an epinephrine autoinjector out of her purse and hands it to you. After administering 100% oxygen, you should: administer the drug. contact medical control. verify the medication name. check the drug's expiration date.
contact medical control
The patient care report (PCR) ensures: research data. legal protection. quality assurance. continuity of care.
continuity of care.
The myocardium receives oxygenated blood from the __________, which originate(s) from the __________. coronary sinus, vena cava aorta, inferior vena cava vena cava, coronary veins coronary arteries, aorta
coronary arteries, aorta
Patients with tuberculosis pose the greatest risk for transmitting the disease when they: cough. vomit. are bleeding. have a fever
cough
What type of stress reaction occurs when an EMT is exposed to many insignificant stressors over a period of several months or years? acute stress reaction cumulative stress reaction posttraumatic stress reaction critical incident stress reaction
cumulative stress reaction
What type of stress reaction occurs when an EMT is exposed to many insignificant stressors over a period of several months or years? acute stress reaction cumulative stress reaction posttraumatic stress reaction critical incident stress reaction
cumulative stress reaction
A patient's shortterm memory is MOST likely intact if he or she correctly answers questions regarding: time and place. date and event. event and person. person and place
date and event
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of epinephrine? secreted naturally by the adrenal glands dilates passages in the lungs constricts blood vessels decreases heart rate and blood pressure
decreases heart rate and blood pressure
A conscious and alert 29yearold female with a history of asthma complains of difficulty breathing that began after her morning jog. The temperature outside is 40°F (5°C). On exam, you hear bilateral expiratory wheezing. After providing 100% oxygen, you should: place her in a recumbent position to facilitate breathing. contact medical control and administer an antihistamine. call medical control and ask how to proceed with treatment. determine if she has been prescribed a betaagonist inhaler.
determine if she has been prescribed a betaagonist inhaler
You are dispatched to a residence for a 40yearold female who fainted. Upon your arrival, the patient is conscious and alert, and states that she is fine. Her husband tells you that she fainted after receiving news that her sister was killed in a car crash. You offer oxygen to the patient, but she refuses to accept it. At this point, your primary concern should be to: determine if she was injured when she fainted. provide emotional support regarding her sister. advise her that she needs to go to the hospital. obtain baseline vital signs and a medical history
determine if she was injured when she fainted.
When communicating with a visually impaired patient, you should: determine the degree of the patient's impairment. expect him or her to have difficulty understanding. recall that most visually impaired patients are blind. possess an in depth knowledge of sign language
determine the degree of the patient's impairment
During the alert and dispatch phase of EMS communications, the dispatcher's responsibilities include all of the following, EXCEPT: discouraging the caller from providing care until the EMS unit arrives. selecting and notifying the correct EMS response units and personnel. screening and assigning a priority to each call based on local protocols. coordinating responding EMS units with other public safety personnel
discouraging the caller from providing care until the EMS unit arrives.
You are dispatched to the residence of an Asian family for a child with a high fever. When you assess the child, you note that he has numerous red marks on his back. The child's parents explain that these marks represent coining—a traditional Asian healing practice in which hot coins are rubbed on the back. You should: advise the child's parents that this is a harmful practice and is considered a form of child abuse in the United States. acknowledge and respect this practice as a cultural belief, but advise the child's parents that it has no healing power. document this on your patient care report and advise the emergency department staff of what the child's parents told you. advise the emergency department physician that you feel as though the child was intentionally abused by his parents
document this on your patient care report and advise the emergency department staff of what the child's parents told you.
After delivering your patient to the hospital, you sit down to complete the PCR. When documenting the patient's last blood pressure reading, you inadvertently write 120/60 instead of 130/70. To correct this mistake, you should: draw a single horizontal line through the error, initial it, and write the correct data next to it. attempt to erase the error, initial it, and then write the correct data on a separate addendum. cover the error with correction fluid and simply write the patient's actual blood pressure over it. leave the error on your PCR but inform the staff of the patient's actual blood pressure
draw a single horizontal line through the error, initial it, and write the correct data next to it
Communicating with hearing impaired patients can be facilitated by doing all of the following, EXCEPT: shining a light on your face when you are in a darkened environment. elevating the tone of your voice and exaggerating word pronunciation. placing yourself in a position to ensure that the patient can see your lips. providing pen and paper if the patient prefers to write his or her response
elevating the tone of your voice and exaggerating word pronunciation
The MOST important consideration at the scene of a hazardous material incident is: identifying the material. calling the hazardous materials team. evacuating the bystanders. ensuring your personal safety.
ensuring your personal safety
A 30yearold male presents with acute shortness of breath, widespread hives, and facial swelling. He denies any past medical history and takes no medications. During your assessment, you hear wheezing over all lung fields. His blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg and his heart rate is 110 beats/min. In addition to giving him 100% oxygen, the MOST important treatment for this patient is: albuterol. epinephrine. an antihistamine. a beta antagonist.
epinephrine.
At the onset of an acute asthma attack, patients commonly experience difficulty breathing and: audible stridor. rales and rhonchi. profound cyanosis. expiratory wheezing
expiratory wheezing
Activated charcoal is frequently suspended in sorbitol, a complex sugar that: significantly slows the process of digestion. binds to any chemicals that are in the stomach. facilitates movement through the digestive system. disguises the unpleasant taste of the activated charcoal
facilitates movement through the digestive system
Neurogenic shock occurs when: failure of the nervous system causes widespread vasodilation. the spinal cord is severed and causes massive hemorrhaging. there is too much blood to fill a smaller vascular container. massive vasoconstriction occurs distal to a spinal cord injury.
failure of the nervous system causes widespread vasodilation
Risk factors for AMI that cannot be controlled include: excess stress. hyperglycemia. family history. lack of exercise
family history
Blood that is ejected from the right ventricle: enters the systemic circulation. flows into the pulmonary arteries. has a high concentration of oxygen. was received directly from the aorta.
flows into the pulmonary arteries
A pleural effusion is MOST accurately defined as: a unilaterally collapsed lung. diffuse collapsing of the alveoli. fluid accumulation outside the lung. a bacterial infection of the lung tissue
fluid accumulation outside the lung
A 27yearold male was stabbed in the chest during a disagreement at a poker game. As you approach him, you see that a knife is impaled in his chest. Before you make physical contact with the patient, it is MOST important to: form a general impression. call for an ALS ambulance. follow standard precautions. ask bystanders what happened
follow standard precautions
The __________ of a medication usually dictates the route by which it will be administered. type form class name
form
What medication form does oral glucose come in? gel liquid suspension fine powder
gel
The official transfer of patient care does not occur until the EMT: gives a radio report to the receiving medical facility. notifies the admitting clerk of their arrival at the hospital. informs dispatch of their arrival at the emergency department. gives an oral report to the emergency room physician or nurse
gives an oral report to the emergency room physician or nurse
Which of the following has the weakest transmission signal and, as a result, is LEAST likely to be heard by the party being called? multiplex base station landbase repeater station mobile repeater station handheld portable radio
handheld portable radio
Which of the following is an example of a symptom? cyanosis headache tachycardia hypertension
headache
When obtaining patient care orders from a physician via a twoway radio, it is MOST important to remember that: his or her instructions are based on the information you provide. the use of 10 codes is an effective method of communication. all orders should be carried out immediately and without question. the physician may or may not be located within your service area
his or her instructions are based on the information you provide
When assessing a patient with a medical complaint, which of the following would MOST likely reveal the cause of his or her problem? history taking rapid body scan baseline vital signs primary assessment
history taking
The medical term for an extremely low blood glucose level is: hypoglycemia. hyperglycemia. hypotension. hypertension.
hypoglycemia
Major risk factors for AMI include all of the following, EXCEPT: hypoglycemia. hypertension. diabetes mellitus. elevated cholesterol
hypoglycemia.
Shock is the result of: hypoperfusion to the cells of the body. the body's maintenance of homeostasis temporary dysfunction of a major organ. widespread constriction of the blood vessels
hypoperfusion to the cells of the body
In an acute injury setting, neurogenic shock is commonly accompanied by: hypovolemia. tachycardia. diaphoresis. hypothermia.
hypothermia.
Advil, Nuprin, and Motrin are brand (trade) names for the generic medication: aspirin. nitrostat. ibuprofen. acetaminophen.
ibuprofen
The goal of the primary assessment is to: determine if the patient's problem is medical or trauma. identify patients that require transport to a trauma center. determine the need to perform a headtotoe assessment. identify and rapidly treat all lifethreatening conditions.
identify and rapidly treat all life threatening conditions
You respond to a call for a female pedestrian who has been struck by a car. As your partner maintains manual stabilization of her head, you perform a primary assessment. She is unconscious, has ineffective breathing, and has bloody secretions in her mouth. You should: assist her breathing with a bagmask device. quickly insert an oropharyngeal airway. assess the rate and quality of her pulse. immediately suction her oropharynx.
immediately suction her oropharynx
Asthma is caused by a response of the: immune system. endocrine system. respiratory system. cardiovascular system.
immune system
Cardiogenic shock may result from all of the following, EXCEPT: heart attack. increased afterload. poor contractility
increased afterload
While providing care to a patient, blood got onto the ambulance stretcher. Because the stretcher was not properly cleaned afterward, a virus was transmitted to another emergency medical technician (EMT) several days later. What route of transmission does this scenario describe? direct contact indirect contact airborne transmission vector borne transmission
indirect contact
Obtaining continuing medical education is the responsibility of the: individual EMT. State Bureau of EMS. EMS training officer. EMS medical director.
individual EMT
The two processes that occur during respiration are: ventilation and diffusion. inspiration and expiration. diffusion and oxygenation. oxygenation and ventilation
inspiration and expiration
A mucosal atomizer device (MAD) is used to deliver certain medications via the: intranasal route. inhalation route. sublingual route. transdermal route.
intranasal route
Which of the following medication routes would be the MOST appropriate to use in an unconscious patient when intravenous access cannot be obtained? intraosseous (IO) intramuscular subcutaneous transcutaneous
intraosseous (IO)
Which of the following is the MOST rapidly acting medication administration route? sublingual (SL) intravenous (IV) subcutaneous (SC) intramuscular (IM)
intravenous (IV)
In contrast to the assessment of a trauma patient, assessment of a medical patient: almost exclusively focuses on physical signs that indicate the patient is experiencing a problem. is focused on the nature of illness, the patient's chief complaint, and his or her symptoms. requires a thorough headtotoe exam that involves a detailed assessment of all body systems. is not as complex for the EMT because most patients typically present with classic symptoms
is focused on the nature of illness, the patient's chief complaint, and his or her symptoms
The secondary assessment of a medical patient: should routinely include a comprehensive examination from head to toe. should be performed at the scene, especially if the patient is critically ill. is not practical if the patient is critically ill or your transport time is short. is typically limited to a focused exam for patients who are unconscious
is not practical if the patient is critically ill or your transport time is short
Hypotension in a child with blunt or penetrating trauma is particularly significant because: it typically develops earlier in children than it does in adults. the most likely cause of the hypotension is respiratory failure. it often indicates the loss of half of his or her blood volume. most children with hypotension die in the prehospital setting
it often indicates the loss of half of his or her blood volume
What maneuver should be used to open the airway of an unresponsive patient with suspected trauma? tonguejaw lift jawthrust maneuver head tilt-chin lift head tilt-neck lift
jawthrust maneuver
Which of the following would MOST likely result in hemorrhagic shock? severe vomiting liver laceration excessive sweating repeated diarrhea
liver laceration
Continuing education in EMS serves to: prove research and statistical findings in pre hospital care. maintain, update, and expand your knowledge and skills. enforce mandatory attendance to agency specific training. provide an ongoing review and audit of the EMS system.
maintain, update, and expand your knowledge and skills
Which of the following is NOT a function of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)? monitoring all radio traffic and conducting field spot checks maintaining communications equipment on the ambulance licensing base stations and assigning appropriate radio call signs allocating specific radio frequencies for use by EMS providers
maintaining communications equipment on the ambulance
Calming and reassuring an anxious patient can be facilitated by: maintaining eye contact with the patient whenever possible. using medical terminology to ensure the patient understands. positioning yourself at a level that is higher than the patient
maintaining eye contact with the patient whenever possible.
You and your EMT partner arrive at the residence of a 50yearold man who complains of weakness. Your primary assessment reveals that he is critically ill and will require aggressive treatment. The closest hospital is 25 miles away. You should: perform a detailed secondary assessment, assess his vital signs, and then transport rapidly. manage all threats to airway, breathing, and circulation and consider requesting an ALS unit. administer oxygen via nonrebreathing mask and obtain as much of his medical history as possible. load him into the ambulance, begin transport, and perform all treatment en route to the hospital
manage all threats to airway, breathing, and circulation and consider requesting an ALS unit.
Endtidal carbon dioxide (ETCO ) is defined as the: 2 maximal concentration of CO at the end of an exhaled breath. maximum amount of CO that remains in the lungs at all times. 2 total amount of CO that remains in the lungs between breaths. 2 amount of CO that a person breathes in during a single inhalation
maximal concentration of CO at the end of an exhaled breath
A drug is contraindicated for a patient when it: is used to treat a multitude of conditions. may cause harm or have no positive effect. produces actions other than the desired ones. is used to treat a specific medical condition
may cause harm or have no positive effect
The person who is responsible for authorizing EMTs to perform emergency medical care in the field is the: shift supervisor. medical director. EMS administrator. field training officer.
medical director
When communicating with an older patient, it is important to remember that: your questions should focus exclusively on the patient's obvious problem. most older people think clearly and are capable of answering questions. hostility and confusion should be presumed to be due to the patient's age. speaking loudly and distinctly will ensure that the patient can hear you
most older people think clearly and are capable of answering questions
Angina pectoris occurs when: a coronary artery is totally occluded by plaque. myocardial oxygen demand exceeds the supply. one or more coronary arteries suddenly spasm. myocardial oxygen supply exceeds the demand.
myocardial oxygen demand exceeds the supply.
An acute myocardial infarction (AMI) occurs when: myocardial tissue dies secondary to an absence of oxygen. the heart muscle progressively weakens and dysfunctions. coronary artery dilation decreases blood flow to the heart. the entire left ventricle is damaged and cannot pump blood
myocardial tissue dies secondary to an absence of oxygen
When providing a patient report via radio, you should protect the patient's privacy by: using coded medical language. not disclosing his or her name. withholding medical history data. refraining from objective statements
not disclosing his or her name
Typical methods of assessing a patient's breathing include all of the following, EXCEPT: listening to breath sounds with a stethoscope. observing for nasal flaring during inhalation. observing the chest for adequate rise and fall
observing for nasal flaring during inhalation.
Prescription glasses do not provide adequate eye protection because they: have large rounded lenses. are not secured with a strap. offer little or no side protection. do not have shatterproof lenses
offer little or no side protection.
Which of the following MOST accurately describes paradoxical movement of the chest wall? multiple rib fractures that cause a marked deformity of the chest wall a marked decrease in chest wall movement due to abdominal breathing only one section of the chest rises on inspiration while another area falls
only one section of the chest rises on inspiration while another area falls
A 40yearold male crashed his motorcycle into a tree. He is semiconscious, has snoring respirations, and has a laceration to the forearm with minimal bleeding. You should: apply a cervical collar and suction his airway. open his airway with the jawthrust maneuver. apply a pressure dressing to the patient's arm. tilt the patient's head back and lift up on his chin.
open his airway with the jawthrust maneuver
An injured patient is assigned a total score of 9 on the GCS. He is assigned a score of 2 for eye opening, a score of 3 for verbal response, and a score of 4 for motor response. Which of the following clinical findings is consistent with his GCS score? opens eyes in response to voice, makes incomprehensible sounds, localizes pain opens eyes in response to pain, uses inappropriate words, withdraws from pain opens eyes spontaneously, is confused when spoken to, exhibits abnormal flexion eyes remain closed, makes incomprehensible sounds, exhibits abnormal extension
opens eyes in response to voice, makes incomprehensible sounds, localizes pain
Which of the following medication routes has the slowest rate of absorption? oral rectal inhalation sublingual
oral
Which of the following conditions would MOST likely cause the pupils to remain significantly constricted? severe cerebral hypoxia intracranial hemorrhaging overdose of an opiate drug oculomotor nerve pressure
overdose of an opiate drug
The greatest danger in displaying a personal bias or "labeling" a patient who frequently calls EMS is: overlooking a potentially serious medical condition. making the entire EMS system look unprofessional. demeaning or humiliating the patient and his family. discouraging the patient from calling EMS in the future
overlooking a potentially serious medical condition
In order for efficient pulmonary gas exchange to occur: the percentage of inhaled carbon dioxide must exceed the percentage of inhaled oxygen. there must be low quantities of pulmonary surfactant to allow for full alveolar expansion. the pulmonary capillaries must be completely constricted and the alveoli must be collapsed. oxygen and carbon dioxide must be able to freely diffuse across the alveolarcapillary membrane.
oxygen and carbon dioxide must be able to freely diffuse across the alveolarcapillary membrane
In ___________ administration, you are administering medication to yourself or your partner. peerassisted patientassisted EMTadministered paramedicadministered
peerassisted
The MOST effective way to determine whether your patient's problem is medical or traumatic in origin is to: perform a careful and thorough assessment. establish the patient's medical history early. take note of the patient's general appearance. ask if bystanders are familiar with the patient
perform a careful and thorough assessment
Shortly after assisting a 65yearold female with her prescribed nitroglycerin, she begins complaining of dizziness and experiences a drop of 30 mm Hg in her systolic blood pressure. The patient remains conscious and her breathing is adequate. You should: transport her in a sitting position. wait 5 minutes and reassess her blood pressure. place her supine and elevate her legs. assist ventilations with a bagmask device
place her supine and elevate her legs
Hypovolemic shock caused by severe burns is the result of a loss of: plasma. platelets. whole blood. red blood cells
plasma
Patients develop septic shock secondary to: poor vessel function and severe volume loss. an infection that weakens cardiac contractions. failure of the blood vessels to adequately dilate. weak vessel tone due to nervous system damage
poor vessel function and severe volume loss
You are assessing a 72yearold man with abdominal pain. The patient is sitting in a chair; he is conscious, alert, and calm. As you are talking to the patient, your partner discreetly directs your attention to a handgun, which is located on a nearby table. You should: immediately cease all patient care, carefully back out of the residence, and request law enforcement assistance. direct your partner to move the gun to a safe area and then advise the patient that his weapon has been secured. document the presence of the weapon, including its specific location, and continue your assessment of the patient. position yourself in between the patient and the gun and ask your partner to request law enforcement assistance
position yourself in between the patient and the gun and ask your partner to request law enforcement assistance
A 59yearold male presents with severe vomiting and diarrhea of 3 days' duration. He is confused and diaphoretic, and his radial pulses are absent. His blood pressure is 78/50 mm Hg. After applying 100% supplemental oxygen, you should: perform a head to toe exam. allow him to drink plain water. obtain a repeat blood pressure in 5 minutes. prepare for immediate transport.
prepare for immediate transport.
You have just completed your primary assessment of a 48yearold man with crushing chest pain. The patient has been given 324 mg of aspirin and is receiving highflow oxygen via nonrebreathing mask. As you begin your secondary assessment, you note that his mental status has deteriorated and he is now bradycardic. You should: continue with your secondary assessment. prepare the patient for immediate transport. insert a nasal airway and assist his breathing. request an ALS unit to respond to the scene.
prepare the patient for immediate transport
A palpable pulse is created by: the pressure of circulating blood against the walls of the arteries. the pressure that is caused when venous blood returns to the heart. pressure waves through the arteries caused by cardiac contraction. electrical conduction in the heart producing ventricular contraction
pressure waves through the arteries caused by cardiac contraction
Aspirin is beneficial to patients suspected of having a heart attack because it: reduces the associated chest pain. dissolves the coronary artery clot. ou Answered causes direct coronary vasodilation. prevents the aggregation of platelets.
prevents the aggregation of platelets
Factors that increase the risk for developing methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) include: prior exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. failure to be vaccinated against any strain of hepatitis. a history of a respiratory illness within the past 6 to 8 weeks. prolonged hospitalization, especially in an intensive care unit
prolonged hospitalization, especially in an intensive care unit
You are dispatched to the county jail for an inmate who is "sick." When you arrive, you find the patient, a 33yearold male, unresponsive. His airway is patent and his respirations are rapid and shallow. Your initial action should be to: apply a pulse oximeter. request a paramedic unit. provide assisted ventilation. assess his blood pressure.
provide assisted ventilation
Which of the following is a unique function of the emergency medical dispatcher (EMD)? relaying relevant information to the EMTs directing the ambulance to the correct address obtaining patient information from the caller providing callers with lifesaving instructions
providing callers with lifesaving instructions
Temporary, widespread vasodilation and syncope caused by a sudden nervous system reaction MOST accurately describes: vasovagal shock. neurogenic shock. psychogenic shock. neurologic shock.
psychogenic shock
Which of the following blood vessels transports oxygenated blood? superior vena cava pulmonary arteries inferior vena cava pulmonary veins
pulmonary veins
During the primary assessment, circulation is evaluated by assessing: skin quality, blood pressure, and capillary refill. pulse quality, external bleeding, and skin condition. blood pressure, pulse rate, and external bleeding. external bleeding, skin condition, and capillary refill
pulse quality, external bleeding, and skin condition.
Observations made when forming a general impression of a patient would include all of the following, EXCEPT: appearance. pulse strength. race and gender. level of distress.
pulse strength
The left ventricle has the thickest walls because it: pumps blood to the lungs to be reoxygenated. uses less oxygen than other chambers of the heart. pumps blood into the aorta and systemic circulation. receives blood directly from the systemic circulation
pumps blood into the aorta and systemic circulation
A 25yearold unrestrained female struck the steering wheel with her chest when her car hit a tree while traveling at a high rate of speed. She has signs and symptoms of shock, which you suspect are the result of intrathoracic bleeding. Which of the following interventions will provide this patient with the greatest chance for survival? 100% oxygen administration full immobilization of her spine ou Answered application of the pneumatic antishock garment (PASG) rapid transport to a trauma center
rapid transport to a trauma center
Which of the following actions would NOT be performed during the scene size up? asking a neighbor to secure the patient's dog rapidly assessing a patient's respiratory status notifying the dispatcher to send fire personnel noting the position of a crashed motor vehicle
rapidly assessing a patient's respiratory status
A 31yearold female is experiencing an acute asthma attack. She is conscious and alert, but in obvious respiratory distress. After assisting her with her prescribed MDI, you should: check the drug's expiration date to ensure that it is still current. contact medical control and apprise him or her of what you did. reassess the patient and document her response to the medication. administer another treatment in 30 seconds if she is still in distress
reassess the patient and document her response to the medication.
While assisting an advanced life support (ALS) ambulance crew, you are accidentally stuck with an IV needle. You should: immerse your wound in an alcohol based solution. report the incident to your supervisor after the call. get immunized against hepatitis as soon as possible. discontinue patient care and seek medical attention
report the incident to your supervisor after the call
Quid pro quo, a type of sexual harassment, occurs when the harasser: requests sexual favors in exchange for something else touches another person without his or her consent. stares at certain parts of another person's anatomy. makes rude remarks about a person's body parts
requests sexual favors in exchange for something else
As you are wheeling your patient through the emergency department doors, you receive another call for a major motor vehicle crash. You should: place the patient in a highvisibility area and then respond to the call. inform the admissions clerk of the situation and then respond at once. leave a copy of the run form with a nurse and then respond to the call. respond only after giving a verbal patient report to a nurse or physician
respond only after giving a verbal patient report to a nurse or physician
A ___________ receives messages and signals on one frequency and then automatically retransmits them on a second frequency. duplex scanner repeater decoder
repeater
A 74yearold woman complains of heaviness in her chest, nausea, and sweating that suddenly began about an hour ago. She is conscious and alert, but anxious. Her blood pressure is 144/84 mm Hg and her heart rate is 110 beats/min. She took two of her prescribed nitroglycerin (0.4mg tablets) before your arrival but still feels heaviness in her chest. You should: 12/3/2015 CHAPTER TEST ch_7: Haley Luker data:text/html;charset=utf8,%3Cdiv%20class%3D%22quizsubmission%20headless%22%20style%3D%22border%3A%201px%20solid%20rgb(255%2C%... 10/15 give her highflow oxygen, avoid giving her any more nitroglycerin because it may cause a drop in her blood pressure, and transport. assist her in taking one more of her nitroglycerin tablets, reassess her blood pressure, and contact medical control for further instructions. transport her at once and wait at least 20 minutes before you consider assisting her with a third dose of her prescribed nitroglycerin. recall that geriatric patients often have slower absorption and elimination times, which may necessitate modification of the dosing of certain drugs.
recall that geriatric patients often have slower absorption and elimination times, which may necessitate modification of the dosing of certain drugs
In addition to obtaining a SAMPLE history and asking questions related to the chief complaint, what else should you inquire about when assessing a patient with a potentially infectious disease? recent travel HIV status sexual practices drug allergies
recent travel
If a patient develops difficulty breathing after your primary assessment, you should immediately: determine his or her respiratory rate. begin assisting his or her breathing. Answered reevaluate his or her airway status. auscultate his or her breath sounds.
reevaluate his or her airway status.
When given to patients with cardiacrelated chest pain, nitroglycerin: relaxes the walls of the coronary arteries. increases myocardial contraction force. increases blood return to the right atrium. constricts the veins throughout the body
relaxes the walls of the coronary arteries
A 19yearold male was stung multiple times by fire ants. He is experiencing obvious signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock. Youadminister 100% oxygen and give him epinephrine via subcutaneous injection. Upon reassessment, you determine that his condition has not improved. You should: transport him immediately and provide supportive care while en route. consider that he may actually be experiencing an acute asthma attack. repeat the epinephrine injection after consulting with medical control. request a paramedic unit that is stationed approximately 15 miles away
repeat the epinephrine injection after consulting with medical control
After receiving online orders from medical control to perform a patient care intervention, you should: perform the intervention as ordered. confirm the order in your own words. ask the physician to repeat the order. repeat the order to medical control word for word.
repeat the order to medical control word for word.