EMT - Chapter 33: Environmental Injuries , Chapter 32 Exam

According to CDC guidelines, a systolic blood pressure of less than _______ indicates a patient should be transported to a trauma center. 90 100 110 80

90

The body's natural cooling mechanism, in which sweat is converted to a gas, is called: A. convection B. radiation C. evaporation D. conduction

C. evaporation

The body's natural cooling mechanism, in which sweat is converted to a gas, is called: Select one: A. convection. B. radiation. C. evaporation. D. conduction.

C. evaporation.

Geriatric patients, newborns, and infants are especially prone to hyperthermia because they: A. have relatively smaller heads. B. have less body fat. C. exhibit poor thermoregulation. D. have smaller body surface areas.

C. exhibit poor thermoregulation.

All of the following terms refer to a body part that is cold but not frozen, EXCEPT: Select one: A. trench foot. B. frostnip. C. frostbite. D. immersion foot.

C. frostbite.

Which of the following conditions would be the LEAST likely to increase a person's risk of hypothermia? A. hypoperfusion B. severe infection C. hyperglycemia D. spinal cord injury

C. hyperglycemia

Evaporation

Conversion of water or another fluid from a liquid to a gas

Heat Cramps

Painful muscle spasms usually associated with vigorous activity in a hot environment

A respiratory rate of less than _______ and greater than _______ in cases of trauma are criteria for immediate transportation to a trauma center according to the CDC physiologic guidelines. 8; 32 10; 29 12; 20 5; 45

10; 29

What is the Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) measurement of altered mental status, which according to CDC guidelines necessitates transport to a trauma center? 12 13 8 14

13

A respiratory rate of less than _______ in infants is a significant finding and indicates a critical patient, who should be immediately transported to a trauma center if secondary to trauma. 20 25 18 30

20

What is the height from which an adult fall would meet trauma triage criteria set forth by the CDC? 10 feet 25 feet 20 feet 15 feet

20 feet

Bends

A Common name for decompression sickness

Homeostasis

A balance of all systems of the body

Hyperthermia

A condition in which core temperature rises to 101 degrees F (38.3 degrees C) or more

Hypothermia

A condition in which the internal body temperature falls below 95 degrees F (35 degrees C) after exposure to a cold environment

Hymenoptera

A family of insects that includes bees, wasps, ants, and yellow jackets

Heat Exhaustion

A form of heat injury in which the body loses significant amounts of fluid and electrolytes because of heavy sweating; also called heat prostration or heat collapse

Heat Stroke

A life-threatening condition of severe hyperthermia caused by exposure to excessive natural or artificial heat, marked by warm, dry skin; severely altered mental status; and often irreversible coma

Decompression Sickness

A painful condition seen in divers who ascend too quickly, in which gas, especially nitrogen, forms bubbles in blood vessels and other tissues; also called "the bends."

Which one of the following patients would justify the need to directly transport to a trauma center based on special patient considerations? An end-stage renal disease patient who tripped and fell and is complaining of shoulder pain on the same side as his shunt An unlicensed teenage driver who has a pulse rate of 120 after a MVC and a 4 minute EMS response A pregnant female in the third trimester who is spotting (showing small amounts of vaginal bleeding) following a low mechanism of injur

A pregnant female in the third trimester who is spotting (showing small amounts of vaginal bleeding) following a low mechanism of injury MVC

Antivenin

A serum that counteracts the effect of venom from an animal or insect

Scuba Gear

A system that delivers air to the mouth and lungs at various atmospheric pressures, increasing with the depth of the dive; stands for self-contained underwater breathing apparatus

What is the definition of multiple trauma? A trauma in which the patient has more than one serious injury. A trauma in which there are multiple casualties. A trauma that requires the response of multiple agencies. Multiple injuries that affect more than one body system.

A trauma in which the patient has more than one serious injury.

Reverse Triage

A triage process used in treating multiple victims of a lightning strike, in which efforts are focused on those who are in respiratory and cardiac arrest. Reverse triage is different from conventional triage where such patients would be classified as deceased

In contrast to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever: A) can cause paralysis and cardiorespiratory collapse B) presents with flu like symptoms and a bulls-eye rash C) may be confused with rheumatoid arthritis D) Causes painful joint swelling after a few days or weeks

A) can cause paralysis and cardiorespiratory collapse

When a warm hand is immersed in water that is 70°F (21°C), heat is transferred from the hand to the water through a process called: A) conduction B) evaporation C) convection D) radiation

A) conduction

All of the following terms refer to a body part that is cold but not frozen, EXCEPT: A) frostbite B) trenchfoot C) immersion foot D) Frostnip

A) frostbite

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and associated hypovolemia include all of the following, EXCEPT: A) normal thirst B) dizziness, weakness, or faintness C) cold, clammy skin with ashen pallor D) normal vitals

A) normal thirst

A person's ability to shiver is lost when his or her body temperature falls below: A. 90°F (32°C). B. 92°F (33°C). C. 94°F (34°C). D. 95°F (35°C).

A. 90°F (32°C).

Which of the following conditions would be the LEAST likely to increase a person's risk of hypothermia? A. Hyperglycemia B. Spinal cord injury C. Severe infection D. Head injury

A. Hyperglycemia

Which of the following statements regarding lightning strikes is correct? A. Lighting often results in a brief period of asystole that resolves spontaneously. B. The tissue damage pathway caused by lightning usually occurs through the skin. C. Victims who are struck by lightning often experience severe full-thickness burns. D. Cervical spine fractures are the most common cause of lightning-related deaths.

A. Lighting often results in a brief period of asystole that resolves spontaneously.

Which of the following is an early sign of pit viper envenomation? A. Local swelling and ecchymosis B. General weakness and diaphoresis C. Signs and symptoms of hypoperfusion D. Syncope and bleeding at distal sites

A. Local swelling and ecchymosis

You are dispatched to a residence for a young female who is sick. The patient complains of a rash to her lower extremities and truncal area. Your assessment reveals a small, painful blister on her inner thigh. As your partner is taking the patient's vital signs, she states that she and her family returned from a camping trip two days ago. On the basis of this patient's presentation, you should suspect: A. Lyme disease. B. an allergic reaction. C. exposure to poison ivy. D. Rocky Mountain spotted

A. Lyme disease.

You are assessing a 33-year-old male who complains of severe abdominal pain, weakness, and nausea. He tells you that he was gathering wood to build a fire when he felt a sudden, sharp pain on the back of his hand. Your assessment reveals that the patient's abdomen is rigid and painful to palpation. You should suspect: A. a black widow spider bite. B. envenomation from a pit viper. C. a brown recluse spider bite. D. Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

A. a black widow spider bite.

The MOST prominent symptom of decompression sickness is: Select one: A. abdominal or joint pain. B. difficulty with vision. C. tightness in the chest. D. dizziness and nausea.

A. abdominal or joint pain.

A 30-year-old male was rescued after being lost in the woods for approximately 18 hours. The outside temperature is 30°F (-1°C). He is immediately placed in the warmed ambulance, where you perform a primary assessment. He is unresponsive, pale, and apneic. You should: Select one: A. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60 seconds. B. apply chemical heat packs to his groin and axillae. C. apply an AED and assess his cardiac rhythm. D. open his airway and give two rescue breaths.

A. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60 seconds.

You and your partner respond to a park where several people were reportedly struck by lightning. When you arrive, you find three patients. The first patient is lying supine on the ground; he is unresponsive and does not appear to be breathing. The second patient is ambulatory, appears confused, and is holding his arm against his chest. The third patient is sitting on the ground holding the sides of his head. After calling for backup, you should: Select one: A. assess the unresponsive patient's p

A. assess the unresponsive patient's pulse, begin CPR starting with chest compressions if he is pulseless, and attach the AED as soon as possible.

High air temperature reduces the body's ability to lose heat by: A. radiation. B. convection. C. conduction. D. evaporation.

A. radiation.

Patients with generalized hypothermia are at an increased risk of a local cold injury because: A. blood is shunted away from the extremities to the body's core. B. peripheral vasodilation brings warm blood to the skin's surface. C. the major muscles of the body become rigid during hypothermia. D. the patient is usually unable to escape the cold ambient temperature.

A. blood is shunted away from the extremities to the body's core.

The diving reflex may allow a person to survive extended periods of submersion in cold water secondary to: A. bradycardia and a slowing of the metabolic rate. B. laryngospasm that protects the lungs from water. C. tachycardia and a lowering of the blood pressure. D. increases in the metabolic rate and oxygen demand.

A. bradycardia and a slowing of the metabolic rate.

Geriatric patients are at a higher risk for heatstroke because: A. circulation to the skin is reduced. B. most geriatric patients are obese. C. their ability to sweat is enhanced. D. their ability to shiver is reduced.

A. circulation to the skin is reduced.

Covering a patient's _________ will significantly minimize radiation heat loss. A. head B. chest C. abdomen D. extremities

A. head

Covering a patient's __________ will significantly minimize radiation heat loss. A. head B. chest C. extremities D. abdomen

A. head

Shivering is a mechanism in which the body generates heat by: A. increasing the metabolic rate. B. decreasing the use of oxygen. C. decreasing the metabolic rate. D. retaining excess carbon dioxide.

A. increasing the metabolic rate.

To obtain the MOST accurate reading of a patient's core body temperature, you should place a special hypothermia thermometer: A. into a patient's rectum B. under the patient's armpit C. behind the patient's knee D. under the patient's tongue

A. into the patient's rectum

To obtain the MOST accurate reading of a patient's core body temperature, you should place a special hypothermia thermometer: A. into the patient's rectum. B. under the patient's tongue. C. behind the patient's knee. D. under the patient's armpit.

A. into the patient's rectum.

A 48-year-old male was stung on the leg by a jellyfish while swimming in the ocean. He is conscious and alert, but complains of intense pain at the wound site. Specific treatment for this patient includes: A. irrigating the wound with vinegar and immersing his leg in hot water. B. pulling the nematocysts out with tweezers and bandaging the wound. C. immersing his leg in fresh cold water and scraping away the stingers. D. applying a chemical ice pack to the wound and encouraging movement.

A. irrigating the wound with vinegar and immersing his leg in hot water.

Which of the following is an early sign of pit viper envenomation? A. local swelling and ecchymosis B. general weakness and diaphoresis C. syncope and bleeding at distal sites D. signs and symptoms of hypoperfusion

A. local swelling and ecchymosis

You and your partner are standing by at a large social event at a river resort when a frantic woman tells you that she found a young male floating face-down in the water. Nobody claims to have witnessed the event. After you and your partner enter the water and reach the patient, you should: A. move him as a unit to a supine position. B. begin ventilations with a barrier device. C. immediately secure him to a longboard. D. perform a jaw-thrust maneuver to open his airway.

A. move him as a unit to a supine position.

You respond to a local lake where a diver complains of difficulty breathing that occurred immediately after rapidly ascending from a depth of approximately 30′. On assessment, you note that he has cyanosis around his lips and has pink froth coming from his nose and mouth. You should: A. suction his mouth and nose, apply high-flow oxygen, position him on his left side with his head down, and contact medical control regarding transport to a recompression facility. B. place him in a semi-sitting

A. suction his mouth and nose, apply high-flow oxygen, position him on his left side with his head down, and contact medical control regarding transport to a recompression facility.

Burns associated with lightning strikes are typically: A. superficial. B. third-degree. C. full-thickness. D. partial-thickness.

A. superficial.

Heat loss from the body through respiration occurs when: A. warm air is exhaled into the atmosphere. B. the core body temperature is greater than 98°F (37°C). C. cool air is inhaled and displaces warm air. D. air temperature is greater than body temperature.

A. warm air is exhaled into the atmosphere.

Air Embolism

Air bubbles in the blood vessels

Multiple trauma and multisystem trauma patients are situations in which the EMT is expected to perform which of the following? Anticipate and treat problems with a greater level of complexity than usual. Provide the best quality care possible, including definitive care on-scene. Respond above and beyond the call of duty. Practice outside the scope of practice in order to provide the greatest good.

Anticipate and treat problems with a greater level of complexity than usual.

What type of trauma triage criteria regarding transport would a finger amputation receive? Any hospital, as long as on-line medical direction approves the facility's capabilities Any hospital with surgical facilities Trauma center The patient's choice of destination

Any hospital with surgical facilities

Dysbarism Injuries

Any signs and symptoms caused by the difference between the surrounding atmospheric pressure and the total gas pressure in various tissues, fluids, and cavities of the body

Which of the following trauma triage criteria would justify transportation to a trauma center based on mechanism of injury alone? Vehicle rollover Vehicle crash-generated telemetry data Intrusion into the occupant area greater than 8 inches Auto versus pedestrian

Auto versus pedestrian

Which of the following choices is NOT a justifiable reason for delaying transport of a critical trauma patient? Suctioning the airway Awaiting arrival of the patient's parents on-scene Ventilating a patient in respiratory distress Immobilizing the patient to a long spine board

Awaiting arrival of the patient's parents on-scene

The venom of a black widow spider is toxic to the: A) respiratory system B) cardiovascular system C) nervous system D) renal system

C) nervous system

Which of the following MOST accurately describes hyperthermia? A) the core body temperature exceeds 99.5F (37C) B) The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose C) heat evaporates a significant amount of body water D) the body eliminates more heat than it can generate

B) The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose

A 30-year-old male was rescued after being lost in the woods for approximately 18 hours. The outside temperature is 30°F (-1°C). He is immediately placed in the warmed ambulance, where you perform a primary assessment. He is unresponsive, pale, and apneic. You should: A) apply chemical heat packs to his groin and axillae B) assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60s C) apply an AED and assess his cardiac rhythm D) open his airway and give two rescue breaths

B) assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60s

You receive a call to a residence for a sick patient. Upon your arrival, you find the patient, a 53-year-old diabetic male, lying down on his front porch. His wife tells you that he had been mowing the lawn in the heat for the past 3 hours. The patient is confused and has hot, moist skin. His pulse is weak and thready, and his blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg. You should: A) administer one tube or oral glucose and reassess his mental status B) load him into the ambulance and begin rapid cooling in

B) load him into the ambulance and begin rapid cooling interventions

You are transporting a 28-year-old man with a frostbitten foot. The patient's vital signs are stable and he denies any other injuries or symptoms. The weather is treacherous and your transport time to the hospital is approximately 45 minutes. During transport, you should: A) cover his foot with chemical heat compresses B) protect the affected part from further injury C) rewarm his food in 102F to 104F degree water D) administer oxygen via NRB

B) protect the affected part from further injury

Treatment of drowning or near drowning begins with: A) Opening the airway B) rescue and removal from the water C) ventilation with 100% oxygen via BVM D) Suctioning the lungs to remove water

B) rescue and removal from the water

A 31-year-old male was bitten on the leg by an unidentified snake. The patient is conscious and alert and in no apparent distress. Your assessment of his leg reveals two small puncture marks with minimal pain and swelling. In addition to administering oxygen and providing reassurance, further care for this patient should include: A) Applying ice to the wound and transporting quickly B) supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting C) elevating the lower extremities and giving antiveni

B) supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting

Most of the serious injuries associated with scuba diving are caused by A) alcohol consumption B) too rapid of an ascent C) too rapid of a descent D) cold water temp

B) too rapid of an ascent

Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature falls below: A. 98°F (37°C). B. 95°F (35°C). C. 90°F (32°C). D. 88°F (31°C).

B. 95°F (35°C).

Which of the following MOST accurately describes hyperthermia? A. The core body temperature exceeds 99.5°F (37°C). B. The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose. C. Heat evaporates a significant amount of body water. D. The body eliminates more heat than it can generate.

B. The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose.

Compared to adults, infants and children are at higher risk for hypothermia for all of the following reasons, EXCEPT: A. a decreased ability to shiver. B. a relatively small surface area. C. a smaller amount of body fat. D. a smaller overall muscle mass.

B. a relatively small surface area.

A 30-year-old male was rescued after being lost in the woods for approximately 18 hours. The outside temperature is 30°F (−1°C). He is immediately placed in the warmed ambulance, where you perform a primary assessment. He is unconscious, pale, and apneic. You should: A. apply an AED and assess his cardiac rhythm. B. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 45 seconds. C. open his airway and give two rescue breaths. D. apply chemical heat packs to his groin and axillae.

B. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 45 seconds.

In contrast to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Select one: A. causes painful joint swelling after a few days or weeks. C. may be confused with rheumatoid arthritis. D. presents with flu-like symptoms and a bull's-eye rash.

B. can cause paralysis and cardiorespiratory collapse.

When a warm hand is immersed in water that is 70°F (21°C), heat is transferred from the hand to the water through a process called: A. radiation. B. conduction. C. convection. D. evaporation.

B. conduction.

When a warm hand is immersed in water that is 70°F (21°C), heat is transferred from the hand to the water through a process called: Select one: A. evaporation. B. conduction. C. radiation. D. convection.

B. conduction.

Drowning is MOST accurately defined as: A. temporary survival after submersion in water. B. death from suffocation after submersion in water. C. water in the lungs following submersion in water. D. death beyond 24 hours after submersion in water.

B. death from suffocation after submersion in water.

All of the following terms are used to describe a cold body part that is not frozen, EXCEPT: A. frostnip. B. frostbite. C. chilblains. D. trench foot.

B. frostbite.

In contrast to the brown recluse spider, the black widow spider: A. is very small and has a violin-shaped marking on its back. B. is large and has a red-orange hourglass mark on its abdomen. C. has a bite that is typically painless until a blister develops. D. has a bite that usually produces local pain but no systemic signs or symptoms.

B. is large and has a red-orange hourglass mark on its abdomen.

In order for sweating to be an effective cooling mechanism: A. the relative humidity must be above 90% B. it must be able to evaporate from the body. C. the body must produce at least 1 L per hour. D. several layers of clothing must be worn.

B. it must be able to evaporate from the body.

In order for sweating to be an effective cooling mechanism: A. several layers of clothing must be worn. B. it must be able to evaporate from the body. C. the relative humidity must be above 90%. D. the body must produce at least 1 L per hour.

B. it must be able to evaporate from the body.

The venom of a black widow spider is toxic to the: A. renal system. B. nervous system. C. respiratory system. D. cardiovascular system.

B. nervous system.

Signs and symptoms of an air embolism include all of the following, EXCEPT: A. dysphasia. B. pale skin. C. dizziness. D. joint pain.

B. pale skin.

Your assessment of a 23-year-old female reveals a core body temperature of 93.4°F (34°C). She is conscious, answers your questions appropriately, is shivering, and complains of nausea. Her skin is cold and pale, her muscles appear rigid, and her respirations are rapid. In addition to monitoring her ABCs, administering oxygen, and turning up the heat in the back of the ambulance, you should: A. apply the AED in case she develops cardiopulmonary arrest, cover her with layers of blankets, and tra

B. place heat packs to her groin, axillae, and behind her neck; cover her with warm blankets; and avoid rough handling.

The EMT must assume that any unwitnessed water-related incident is accompanied by: A) coldwater immersion B) alcohol intoxication C) possible spinal injury D) an air embolism

C) possible spinal injury

The EMT must assume that any unwitnessed water-related incident is accompanied by: A. an air embolism B. possible spinal injury C. alcohol intoxication D. cold-water immersion

B. possible spinal injury

A patient with a core body temperature of 95°F (35°C) will MOST likely experience: A. a slow pulse. B. rapid breathing. C. muscle stiffness. D. loss of consciousness.

B. rapid breathing.

Burns associated with lightning strikes are typically: Select one: A. full-thickness. B. superficial. C. partial-thickness. D. third-degree.

B. superficial.

A 31-year-old male was bitten on the leg by an unidentified snake. The patient is conscious and alert and in no apparent distress. Your assessment of his leg reveals two small puncture marks with minimal pain and swelling. In addition to administering oxygen and providing reassurance, further care for this patient should include: Select one: A. elevating the lower extremities and giving antivenin. B. supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting. C. applying ice to the wound and transp

B. supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting.

Heatstroke occurs when: A. a person's core body temperature rises above 103°F (39°C). B. the body's heat-eliminating mechanisms are overwhelmed. C. a person becomes dehydrated secondary to excess water loss. D. the ambient temperature exceeds 90°F (32°C) and the humidity is high.

B. the body's heat-eliminating mechanisms are overwhelmed.

An air embolism associated with diving occurs when: A. the diver hyperventilates prior to entering the water. B. the diver holds his or her breath during a rapid ascent. C. the alveoli completely collapse due to high pressure. D. high water pressure forces air into the mediastinum.

B. the diver holds his or her breath during a rapid ascent.

Rough handling of a hypothermic patient with a pulse may cause: A. profound bradycardia. B. ventricular fibrillation. C. ventricular tachycardia. D. pulseless electrical activity.

B. ventricular fibrillation.

Drowning is MOST accurately defined as: A) temporary survival after submersion in water B) water in the lungs following submersion in water C) Death from suffocation after submersion in water D) death beyond 24hrs after submersion in water

C) Death from suffocation after submersion in water

The rate and amount of heat loss by the body can be modified by all of the following, EXCEPT: A) wearing insulated clothing B) increasing heat production C) Increasing fluid intake D) moving to an area where heat loss is decreased

C) Increasing fluid intake

The organs most severely affected by air embolism are the: A) Brain and lungs B) heart and lungs C) brain and spinal cord D) brain and heart

C) brain and spinal cord

Common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include all of the following, EXCEPT: A) tachycardia B) headache C) hot, dry skin D) nausea

C) hot, dry skin

You respond to a local lake where a diver complains of difficulty breathing that occurred immediately after rapidly ascending from a depth of approximately 30 feet. On assessment, you note that he has cyanosis around his lips and has pink froth coming from his nose and mouth. You should: A) position him supine with his head elevated 30˚, suction mouth and nose, hyperventilate him with BVM, and contact medical control B) place him in a semi-sitting position, suction his mouth and nose, apply a

C) suction his mouth and nose, apply high-flow oxygen, monitor the patient's breath sounds for a pneumothorax, and contact medical control regarding transport to a recompression facility

Burns associated with lightning strikes are typically: A) full thickness B) partial thickness C) superficial D) third degree

C) superficial

Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature falls below: A. 98F (37C) B. 88F (31C) C. 95 F (35C) D. 90F (32C)

C. 95F

Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature falls below: Select one: A. 88°F (31°C). B. 98°F (37°C). C. 95°F (35°C). D. 90°F (32°C).

C. 95°F (35°C).

A 31-year-old male was bitten on the leg by an unidentified snake. The patient is conscious and alert and in no apparent distress. Your assessment of his leg reveals two small puncture marks with minimal pain and swelling. In addition to administering oxygen and providing reassurance, further care for this patient should include: A. transporting only with close, continuous monitoring. B. elevating the lower extremities and giving antivenin. C. supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transpor

C. Supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting.

Which of the following would be the LEAST likely to occur in a patient with a core body temperature of between 89°F (32°C) and 92°F (33°C)? A. Confusion B. Stiff muscles C. Tachycardia D. Bradypnea

C. Tachycardia

Compared to adults, infants and children are at higher risk for hypothermia for all of the following reasons, EXCEPT: A. a smaller amount of body fat. B. a decreased ability to shiver. C. a relatively small surface area. D. a smaller overall muscle mass.

C. a relatively small surface area.

Breath-holding syncope is caused by a decreased stimulus to breathe and occurs when: A. a swimmer breathes shallowly before entering the water. B. a diver holds his or her breath during a staged ascent. C. a swimmer hyperventilates prior to entering the water. D. a diver holds his or her breath for a long period of time.

C. a swimmer hyperventilates prior to entering the water.

Signs of late heatstroke include: A. hot, moist skin. B. nausea and vomiting. C. a weak, rapid pulse. D. a change in behavior.

C. a weak, rapid pulse.

To assess a patient's general temperature, pull back on your glove and place the back of your hand on his or her skin at the: A. neck. B. chest. C. abdomen. D. forehead.

C. abdomen.

A 30=year-old male was rescued after being lost in the woods for approximately 18 hours. The outside temperature is 30°F (-1°C). He is immediately placed in the warmed ambulance, where you perform a primary assessment. He is unresponsive, pale, and apneic. You should: A. apply an AED and assess his cardiac rhythm. B. apply chemical heat packs to his groin and axillae. C. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60 seconds. D. open his airway and give two rescue breaths.

C. assess for a carotid pulse for up to 60 seconds.

You and your partner respond to a park where several people were reportedly struck by lightning. When you arrive, you find three patients. The first patient is lying supine on the ground; he is unresponsive and does not appear to be breathing. The second patient is ambulatory, appears confused, and is holding his arm against his chest. The third patient is sitting on the ground holding the sides of his head. After calling for backup, you should: A. immediately begin CPR on the unresponsive patie

C. assess the unresponsive patient's pulse, begin CPR starting with chest compressions if he is pulseless, and attach the AED as soon as possible.

The transfer of heat to circulating air, such as when cool air moves across the body's surface, is called: A. radiation. B. conduction. C. convection. D. evaporation.

C. convection.

All of the following snakes are pit vipers, EXCEPT for the: A. copperhead. B. rattlesnake. C. coral snake. D. cottonmouth.

C. coral snake.

In contrast to the brown recluse spider, the black widow spider: A. is very small and has a violin-shaped marking on its back. B. has a bite that usually produces local pain but no systemic signs or symptoms. C. is large and has a red-orange hourglass mark on its abdomen. D. has a bite that is typically painless until a blister develops.

C. is large and has red-orange hourglass mark on its abdomen.

You receive a call to a residence for a sick patient. Upon your arrival, you find the patient, a 53-year-old diabetic male, lying down on his front porch. His wife tells you that he had been mowing the lawn in the heat for the past 3 hours. The patient is confused and has hot, moist skin. His pulse is weak and thready, and his blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg. In addition to administering 100% oxygen, you should: A. perform a rapid assessment and look for signs of trauma. B. place him in a sitting

C. load him into the ambulance and begin rapid cooling interventions.

A frostbitten foot can be identified by the presence of: A. gross deformity. B. soft, smooth skin. C. mottling and blisters. D. blanching of the skin.

C. mottling and blisters.

The EMT must assume that any unwitnessed water-related incident is accompanied by: A. an air embolism. B. alcohol intoxication. C. possible spinal injury. D. cold water immersion.

C. possible spinal injury.

You are transporting a 28-year-old man with a frostbitten foot. The patient's vital signs are stable and he denies any other injuries or symptoms. The weather is treacherous and your transport time to the hospital is approximately 45 minutes. During transport, you should: Select one: A. administer oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask. B. cover his foot with chemical heat compresses. C. protect the affected part from further injury. D. rewarm his foot in 102°F to 104°F (38.9°C to 40°C) water.

C. protect the affected part from further injury.

A 20-year-old male was pulled from cold water by his friends. The length of his submersion is not known and was not witnessed. You perform a primary assessment and determine that the patient is apneic and has a slow, weak pulse. You should: A. suction his airway for 30 seconds, provide rescue breathing, keep him warm, and transport at once. B. ventilate with a bag-mask device, apply a cervical collar, remove his wet clothing, and transport rapidly. C. provide rescue breathing, remove wet clothin

C. provide rescue breathing, remove wet clothing, immobilize his spine, keep him warm, and transport carefully.

You respond to a local lake where a diver complains of difficulty breathing that occurred immediately after rapidly ascending from a depth of approximately 30 feet. On assessment, you note that he has cyanosis around his lips and has pink froth coming from his nose and mouth. You should: Select one: A. suction his mouth and nose, keep him supine and elevate his legs to prevent air bubbles from entering his brain, administer high-flow oxygen, and transport to a hyperbaric chamber. B. place him in

C. suction his mouth and nose, apply high-flow oxygen, monitor the patient's breath sounds for a pneumothorax, and contact medical control regarding transport to a recompression facility.

Burns associated with lightning strikes are typically: A. partial-thickness B. third-degree C. superficial D. full-thickness

C. superficial

The two MOST efficient ways for the body to eliminate excess heat are: A. respiration and bradycardia. B. perspiration and tachycardia. C. sweating and dilation of skin blood vessels. D. hyperventilation and tachycardia.

C. sweating and dilation of skin blood vessels.

Most of the serious injuries associated with scuba diving are caused by: Select one: A. alcohol consumption. B. cold water temperature. C. too rapid of an ascent. D. too rapid of a descent.

C. too rapid of an ascent.

Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature falls below: A) 98F B) 90F C) 88F D) 95F

D) 95F

You and your partner respond to a park where several people were reportedly struck by lightning. When you arrive, you find three patients. The first patient is lying supine on the ground; he is unresponsive and does not appear to be breathing. The second patient is ambulatory, appears confused, and is holding his arm against his chest. The third patient is sitting on the ground holding the sides of his head. After calling for backup, you should: A) recognize that the patients who are conscious

D) assess the unresponsive patient's pulse, begin CPR starting w/ chest compressions if he is pulseless, and attach the AED ASAP

The body's natural cooling mechanism, in which sweat is converted to a gas, is called: A) conduction B) convection C) radiation D) evaporation

D) evaporation

Which of the following statements regarding the brown recluse spider is NOT true? A) bites rarely cause systemic signs and symptoms B) the venom is not neurotoxic C) it mostly lives in southern and central parts of the country D) it is larger than the black widow spider

D) it is larger than the black widow spider

Which of the following is an early sign of pit viper envenomation? A) general weakness and diaphoresis B) signs and symptoms of hypoperfusion C) syncope and bleeding at distal sites D) local swelling and ecchymosis

D) local swelling and ecchymosis

Signs and symptoms of severe systemic hypothermia include all of the following, EXCEPT: A) very slow respiration B) coma C) weak pulse D) shivering

D) shivering

Which of the following medications increases a person's risk of a heat-related emergency? A. Tylenol B. Asprin C. Motrin D. Diuretics

D. Diuretics

All of the following terms refer to a body part that is cold but not frozen, EXCEPT: A. Immersion Foot B. Trench Foot C. Frostnip D. Frostbite

D. Frostbite

What is the definition of multisystem trauma? Multiple injuries that affect more than one body system. Trauma in which the patient has more than one serious injury. A trauma in which there are multiple casualties. A trauma that requires the response of multiple agencies

Multiple injuries that affect more than one body system.

Which of the following statements regarding drowning is correct? A. Hypoxia in the drowning victim initially occurs due to water in the lungs. B. Artificial ventilations can easily be performed in patients with a laryngospasm. C. Large amounts of water enter the lungs in a small number of drowning victims. D. Laryngospasm following submersion in water makes rescue breathing difficult.

D. Laryngospasm following submersion in water makes rescue breathing difficult.

Which of the following is an early sign of pit viper envenomation? Select one: A. Signs and symptoms of hypoperfusion B. Syncope and bleeding at distal sites C. General weakness and diaphoresis D. Local swelling and ecchymosis

D. Local swelling and ecchymosis

Which of the following MOST accurately describes hyperthermia? Select one: A. Heat evaporates a significant amount of body water. B. The body eliminates more heat than it can generate. C. The core body temperature exceeds 99.5°F (37°C). D. The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose.

D. The body is exposed to more heat than it can lose.

The MOST prominent symptom of decompression sickness is: A. tightness in the chest. B. difficulty with vision. C. dizziness and nausea. D. abdominal or joint pain.

D. abdominal or joint pain.

You and your partner respond to a park where several people were reportedly struck by lightning. When you arrive, you find three patients. The first patient is lying supine on the ground; he is unresponsive and does not appear to be breathing. The second patient is ambulatory, appears confused, and is holding his arm against his chest. The third patient is sitting on the ground holding the sides of his head . After calling for backup, you should: A. recognize that the patients who are conscious

D. assess the unresponsive patient's pulse, begin CPR starting with chest compressions if he is pulseless, and attach the AED as soon as possible.

A dysbarism injury refers to the signs and symptoms related to changes in: A. rapid ascent. B. rapid descent. C. decompression. D. barometric pressure.

D. barometric pressure.

Hypothermia can worsen internal bleeding secondary to: A. cardiac arrhythmias. B. a decreased heart rate. C. severe muscular rigidity. D. blood clotting abnormalities.

D. blood clotting abnormalities.

The venom of a brown recluse spider is cytotoxic, meaning that it: A. suppresses the respiratory drive. B. destroys the body's red blood cells. C. weakens the structure of the bones. D. causes severe local tissue damage.

D. causes severe local tissue damage.

Drowning is MOST accurately defined as: Select one: A. water in the lungs following submersion in water. B. death beyond 24 hours after submersion in water. C. temporary survival after submersion in water. D. death from suffocation after submersion in water.

D. death from suffocation after submersion in water.

Which of the following medications increases a person's risk of a heat-related emergency? A. Motrin B. Tylenol C. Aspirin D. diuretics

D. diuretics

When the body loses sweat, it also loses: A. plasma. B. nutrients. C. erythrocytes. D. electrolytes.

D. electrolytes.

High humidity reduces the body's ability to lose heat through: A. radiation. B. convection. C. conduction. D. evaporation.

D. evaporation.

The body's natural cooling mechanism, in which sweat is converted to a gas, is called: A. radiation. B. convection. C. conduction. D. evaporation.

D. evaporation.

Common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include all of the following, EXCEPT: A. nausea. B. headache. C. tachycardia. D. hot, dry skin.

D. hot, dry skin.

What are some of the most important critical decisions an EMT can make on the scene of a serious trauma? Determining patient priority, amount of time on-scene, and hospital transport decision Whether to await ALS care on-scene or begin BLS transport Load and go versus stay and play Physiological determinants, anatomic criteria, and mechanism of injury

Determining patient priority, amount of time on-scene, and hospital transport decision

You receive a call to a residence for a sick patient. Upon your arrival, you find the patient, a 53-year-old diabetic male, lying down on his front porch. His wife tells you that he had been mowing the lawn in the heat for the past 3 hours. The patient is confused and has hot, moist skin. His pulse is weak and thready, and his blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg. You should: Select one: A. administer one tube of oral glucose and reassess his mental status. B. perform a head-to-toe assessment and look

D. load him into the ambulance and begin rapid cooling interventions.

You are dispatched to a local high school track and field event for a 16-year-old male who fainted. The outside temperature is approximately 95°F (35°C) with high humidity. Upon your arrival, the patient is conscious, alert, and complains of nausea and a headache. His skin is cool, clammy, and pale. You should: A. give him a liquid salt solution to drink. B. administer 100% supplemental oxygen. C. apply chemical ice packs to his axillae. D. move him into the cooled ambulance.

D. move him into the cooled ambulance.

The venom of a black widow spider is toxic to the: Select one: A. cardiovascular system. B. renal system. C. respiratory system. D. nervous system.

D. nervous system.

The EMT must assume that any unwitnessed water-related incident is accompanied by: Select one: A. cold-water immersion. B. an air embolism. C. alcohol intoxication. D. possible spinal injury.

D. possible spinal injury.

You are transporting a 28-year-old man with a frostbitten foot. The patient's vital signs are stable and he denies any other injuries or symptoms. The weather is treacherous and your transport time to the hospital is approximately 45 minutes. During transport, you should: A. rewarm his foot in 100°F to 105°F (38°C to 40°C) water. B. administer oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask. C. cover his foot with chemical heat compresses. D. protect the affected part from further injury.

D. protect the affected part from further injury.

High air temperature reduces the body's ability to lose heat by: A. evaporation B. convection C. conduction D. radiation

D. radiation

While drinking beer with his friends near a creek, a 31-year-old male was bitten on the leg by an unidentified snake. The patient is conscious and alert and in no apparent distress. Your assessment of his leg reveals two small puncture marks with minimal pain and swelling. In addition to administering oxygen and providing reassurance, further care for this patient should include: A. applying ice to the wound and transporting quickly. B. transporting only with close, continuous monitoring. C. ele

D. supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting.

Which of the following would be the LEAST likely to occur in a patient with a core body temperature of between 89°F (32°C) and 92°F (33°C)? A. bradypnea B. confusion C. stiff muscles D. tachycardia

D. tachycardia

An air embolism associated with diving occurs when: A. the alveoli completely collapse due to high pressure. B. high water pressure forces air into the mediastinum. C. the diver hyperventilates prior to entering the water. D. the diver holds his or her breath during a rapid ascent.

D. the diver holds his or her breath during a rapid ascent.

Most of the serious injuries associated with scuba diving are caused by: A. water temperature lower than 70°F (21°C). B. too rapid of a descent. C. alcohol consumption. D. too rapid of an ascent.

D. too rapid of an ascent.

The body's natural protective mechanisms against heat loss are: A. respiration and vasoconstriction. B. shivering and vasodilation. C. vasodilation and respiration. D. vasoconstriction and shivering.

D. vasoconstriction and shivering.

The body's natural protective mechanisms against heat loss are: A. shivering and vasodilation. B. vasodilation and respiration. C. respiration and vasoconstriction. D. vasoconstriction and shivering.

D. vasoconstriction and shivering.

Frostbite

Damage to tissues as the result of exposure to cold; frozen body parts

You are dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on a rural mountain highway. You have a patient who was unconscious on arrival, had a seizure, and is currently awake but combative. You suspect he may have a head injury. What is considered the BEST approach regarding transport of this patient? Dispatch and await the medical helicopter, which is 20 minutes away. Transport to a local community hospital approximately 15 minutes away via ground. Begin transport to the trauma center on the ground, wh

Dispatch and await the medical helicopter, which is 20 minutes away.

You are transporting a stable patient who was involved in a minor fall from a ladder at a height of about 10 feet to a local community hospital. You assumed full spinal precautions not only because the patient has midline back pain in the sacrum, but also because he was knocked unconscious. While transporting, the patient begins to become increasingly confused, develop an irregular respiratory rate, and experience a drop in heart rate with an increase in blood pressure. You just called in a radi

Divert to the trauma center because the patient is becoming symptomatic.

What criteria based on the CDC guidelines allows a discretionary approach to trauma triage? For example, a patient not meeting ordinary trauma triage criteria may be transported to a trauma center based on what consideration? Review of morbidity and mortality The CDC "No-protocol Protocol" "Golden Hour" criteria EMS provider judgment

EMS provider judgment

Based on the following presentations of patient injuries, which one would be considered MOST severe, justifying immediate transportation to a trauma center? Midline cervical spine pain An open (compound) midshaft femur fracture Closed head injury Flail chest

Flail chest

What are the three elements of the Revised Trauma Score? GCS, pulse rate, and respiratory rate GCS, systolic blood pressure, and pulse rate GCS, systolic blood pressure, and respiratory rate Level of consciousness, systolic blood pressure, and pulse rate

GCS, systolic blood pressure, and respiratory rate

You are dispatched to a multiple vehicle collision on a busy Interstate highway. Your crew identifies a critical patient entrapped in a small sedan with significant intrusion into the occupant area on the front and left side. One of your crew members, dressed in fully protective gear, volunteers to enter the vehicle to begin assessment and treatment. Given that access to the patient is limited, you tell him to concentrate on assessing which of the following parts of the patient's body? Head, po

Head, chest, and torso

What is the BEST option an EMT has when encountering poor BVM compliance when attempting to ventilate a patient? Begin chest compressions. Place the patient on supplemental oxygen. Address ventilation en route to the hospital or ALS intercept. Involve two people in the procedure.

Involve two people in the procedure.

Breath-holding syncope

Loss of consciousness caused by a decreased breathing stimulus

You are dispatched to a motorcycle crash with one patient involved. What is the most important intervention to perform first? Begin chest compressions Manually stabilize the cervical spine Suction the vomit and secretions from the airway Stabilize the pelvis to a long spine board

Manually stabilize the cervical spine

What trauma triage guidelines did the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention release in order to guide the most injured patients into trauma centers? Teamwork, timing, and transport Physiological determinants, anatomic criteria, and mechanism of injury Determining patient priority, amount of time on-scene, and hospital transport decision Lights, sirens, and diesel

Physiological determinants, anatomic criteria, and mechanism of injury

Which one of the following is NOT a key decision for the EMT when faced with a multisystem or multiple trauma patient? Should I transport to a trauma center? Do I need to minimize on-scene time? Should I allow police to interview the patient on-scene? Is the patient seriously injured?

Should I allow police to interview the patient on-scene?

Diving Reflex

Slowing of the heart rate caused by submersion in cold water

You encounter an accident on a busy intercity street while on duty. Calling into dispatch, you make note that the occupants of both vehicles are outside, and request additional units to proceed non-emergently. You approach an elderly male who is rubbing his back and left shoulder. During secondary assessment of past medical history, you make note of several important details: The patient is on high blood pressure medications, and has had a heart attack in the past. He is complaining of midline t

Take the patient to a local community hospital.

What are three elements of successful trauma care that field practitioners can use which will ultimately translate into greater rates of survival? Teamwork, timing, and transport Ground ambulances, air helicopters, and trauma centers Lights, sirens, and diesel Physiological determinants, anatomic criteria, and mechanism of injury

Teamwork, timing, and transport

Turgor

The ability of the skin to resist deformation; tested by gently pinching skin on the forehead or back of the hand

Respiration

The loss of body heat as warm air in the lungs is exhaled into the atmosphere and cooler air is inhaled

Convection

The loss of body heat caused by air movement (eg, breeze blowing across the body)

Conduction

The loss of heat by direct contact (eg, when a body part comes into contact with a colder object)

Drowning

The process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion or immersion in liquid

Core Temperature

The temperature of the central part of the body (eg, the heart, lungs, and vital organs)

Ambient Temperature

The temperature of the surrounding environment

Radiation

The transfer of heat to colder objects in the environment by radiant energy, for example heat gain from a fire