EMT exam #3 (ch. 10, 11, 15)
Which of the following medical history questions would be of LEAST pertinence in an acute situation? 1) "Does the pain stay in your chest?" 2) "Does your mother have diabetes?" 3) "Has this ever happened to you before?" 4) "Are there medications that you cannot take?"
"Does your mother have diabetes?"
Which of the following questions is used to determine a patient's chief complaint? 1) "What seems to be the matter?" 2) "When did the chest pain begin?" 3) "Are you having trouble breathing?" 4) "Do you have a history of diabetes?"
"What seems to be the ma!er?"
An adult at rest should have a respiratory rate that ranges between: Question 10 options: 1) 8 and 15 breaths/min. 2) 10 and 18 breaths/min. 3) 12 and 20 breaths/min. 4) 16 and 24 breaths/min.
12 and 20 breaths/min.
The pressure of gas in a full cylinder of oxygen is approximately _______ pounds per square inch (psi). Question 5 options: 1) 500 2) 1,000 3) 2,000 4) 3,000
2,000
Which of the following is MOST characteristic of adequate breathing? Question 7 options: 1) 22 breaths/min with an irregular pattern of breathing and cyanosis 2) 20 breaths/min with shallow movement of the chest wall and pallor 3) 24 breaths/min with bilaterally equal breath sounds and pink skin 4) 30 breaths/min with supraclavicular retractions and clammy skin
24 breaths/min with bilaterally equal breath sounds and pink skin
Which of the following patients is breathing adequately? 36-year-old man with cyanosis around the lips and irregular respirations 29-year old woman with respirations of 20 breaths/min, who is conscious and alert 22-year-old man with labored respirations at a rate of 28 breaths/min and pale skin 59-year-old woman with difficulty breathing, whose respirations are rapid and shallow
29-year old woman with respirations of 20 breaths/min, who is conscious and alert
When testing a mechanical suctioning unit, you should turn on the device, clamp the tubing, and ensure that it generates a vacuum pressure of more than: 1) 100 mm Hg 2) 200 mm Hg 3) 300 mm Hg 4) 400 mm Hg
300 mm Hg
You arrive at a residence approximately 20 minutes after a 7-year-old 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 then transport the child at once. The appropriate maximum dose of activated charcoal for this child is: Question 8 options: 1) 11 g. 2) 22 g. 3) 36 g. 4) 44 g.
44 g.
With the flowmeter set at 6 L/min, the nasal cannula will deliver up to _______ oxygen. Question 4 options: 1) 14% 2) 24% 3) 34% 4) 44%
44%
What is the alveolar minute volume of a patient with a tidal volume of 500 mL, a dead space volume of 150 mL, and a respiratory rate of 16 breaths/min? Question 1 options: 1) 5,600 mL 2) 6,000 mL 3) 7,400 mL 4) 8,000 mL
5,600 mL
An oxygen cylinder should be taken out of service and refilled when the pressure inside it is less than: Question 7 options: 1) 200 psi. 2) 500 psi. 3) 1,000 psi. 4) 1,500 psi.
500 psi.
With a good mask-to-face seal and an oxygen flow rate of 15 L/min, the nonrebreathing mask is capable of delivering up to ______% inspired oxygen. 1) 70 2) 80 3) 90 4) 100
90
Which of the following patients should you place in the recovery position? 1) A 19-year-old conscious male with a closed head injury and normal respirations 2) A 24-year-old unconscious female who overdosed and has a reduced tidal volume 3) A 31-year-old semiconscious male with low blood sugar and adequate breathing 4) A 40-year-old conscious female with a possible neck injury and regular respirations
A 31-year-old semiconscious male with low blood sugar and adequate breathing
In which of the following patients would the head tilt-chin lift maneuver be the MOST appropriate method of opening the airway? 1) A 24-year-old male who is found unconscious at the base of a tree 2) A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed 3) A 45-year-old male who is semiconscious after falling 20 feet 4) A 50-year-old male who is unconscious following head trauma
A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed
In which of the following patients would the head tilt-chin lift maneuver be the MOST appropriate method of opening the airway? Question 3 options: 1) A 24-year-old male who is found unconscious at the base of a tree 2) A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed 3) A 45-year-old male who is semiconscious after falling 20 feet 4) A 50-year-old male who is unconscious following head trauma
A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed
Which of the following scenarios does NOT involve the presence of any symptoms? A 44-year-old male with abdominal pain and severe dizziness A 49-year-old female with blurred vision and ringing in the ears A 55-year-old male with a severe headache and 2 days of nausea A 61-year-old female who is unconscious with facial cyanosis
A 61-year-old female who is unconscious with facial cyanosis
Which of the following patients is breathing adequately? 1) A conscious male with respirations of 19 breaths/min and pink skin 2) A conscious female with facial cyanosis and rapid, shallow respirations 3) A conscious male with respirations of 18 breaths/min and reduced tidal volume 4) An unconscious 52-year-old female with snoring respirations and cool, pale skin
A conscious male with respirations of 19 breaths/min and pink skin
In which of the following patients would a nasopharyngeal airway be contraindicated? A semiconscious patient with a gag reflex An unconscious patient with an intact gag reflex A patient who fell 20 feet and landed on his or her head An unconscious patient who gags when you insert an oral airway
A patient who fell 20 feet and landed on his or her head
Which of the following is MOST reliable indicator of adequately performed bag valve mask ventilations in an apneic adult with a pulse? 1) Twenty breaths/min being delivered to the adult 2) Decreased compliance when squeezing the bag 3) An adult's heart rate that is consistently increasing 4) Adequate rise of the chest when squeezing the bag
Adequate rise of the chest when squeezing the bag
Which of the following is the MOST reliable indicator of adequately performed bag-valve mask ventilations in an apneic adult with a pulse? Question 7 options: 1) Twenty breaths/min being delivered to the adult 2) Decreased compliance when squeezing the bag 3) An adult's heart rate that is consistently increasing 4) Adequate rise of the chest when squeezing the bag
Adequate rise of the chest when squeezing the bag
Which of the following statements regarding the one-person bag-valve mask technique is correct? 1) Bag-valve mask ventilations should be delivered every 2 seconds when the device is being operated by one person. 2) The C-clamp method of holding the mask to the face is not effective when ventilating a patient with a bag-valve mask. 3) Adequate tidal volume is often difficult to achieve when one EMT is operating the bag-valve mask. 4) The bag-valve mask delivers more tidal volume and a higher oxygen concentration than the mouth-to-mask technique.
Adequate tidal volume is often difficult to achieve when one EMT is operating the bag-valve mask.
A 23-year-old male experienced severe head trauma after his motorcycle collided with an oncoming truck. He is unconscious, has rapid and shallow breathing, and has copious bloody secretions in his mouth. How should you manage his airway? Question 8 options: 1) Suction his oropharynx with a rigid catheter until all secretions are removed. 2) Insert a nasopharyngeal airway and provide suction and assisted ventilations. 3) Alternate 15 seconds of oral suctioning with 2 minutes of assisted ventilation. 4) Provide continuous ventilations with a bag-valve mask to minimize hypoxia.
Alternate 15 seconds of oral suctioning with 2 minutes of assisted ventilation.
In what area of the lungs does respiration occur? Question 2 options: 1) Alveoli 2) Trachea 3) Bronchi 4) Capillaries
Alveoli
Which of the following statements regarding the metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is correct? 1) MDIs are contraindicated for patients with asthma or emphysema. 2) MDIs are most commonly used by patients with cardiovascular disease. 3) An MDI delivers the same amount of medication every time it is used. 4) 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? Question 10 options: 1) Patients with asthma are at lower risk of developing anaphylaxis. 2) Anaphylaxis is characterized by airway swelling and hypotension. 3) Most anaphylactic reactions occur within 60 minutes of exposure. 4) The signs of anaphylaxis are caused by widespread vasoconstriction.
Anaphylaxis is characterized by airway swelling and hypotension.
While auscultating an elderly woman's breath sounds, you hear low-pitched "rattling" sounds at the bases of both of her lungs. This finding is MOST consistent with which of the following conditions? Question 2 options: 1) Acute asthma attack 2) Widespread atelectasis 3) Aspiration pneumonia 4) Early pulmonary edema
Aspiration pneumonia
Which of the following is an example of a generic of a drug? Question 7 options: 1) Bayer 2) Advil 3) Excedrin 4) Aspirin
Aspirin
Which of the following respiratory diseases causes obstruction of the lower airway? Croup Asthma Epiglottitis Laryngitis
Asthma
You are treating a 45-year-old 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 auto-injector. 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? 1) Administer her epinephrine, reassess her condition, and transport her promptly. 2) Begin immediate transport and request an intercept with a paramedic ambulance. 3) Begin transport to the hospital and closely monitor her condition while en route. 4) Give her half the dose of her epinephrine in case her allergic reaction is delayed.
Begin transport to the hospital and closely monitor her condition while en route.
Which of the following oxygen flowmeters is NOT affected by gravity and can be used in any position when attached to an oxygen cylinder? Question 2 options: 1) Vertical-position flowmeter 2) Bourdon-gauge flowmeter 3) Ball-and-float flowmeter 4) Pressure-compensated flowmeter
Bourdon-gauge flowmeter
A man was found unresponsive in his bed at home. There is no evidence of injury and the patient's medical history is not known. The patient's face is cyanotic, yet the pulse oximeter reads 98%. Which of the following would MOST likely explain this? Question 6 options: 1) Severe pulmonary edema 2) Carbon monoxide poisoning 3) His extremities are cold 4) Increased body temperature
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Irregular respirations characterized by an increasing rate and depth of breathing followed by periods of apnea are called: 1) Ataxic respirations 2) Agonal respirations 3) Eupneic respirations 4) Cheyne - Stokes respirations
Cheyne - Stokes respirations
Which of the following patients is the BEST candidate for oral glucose? Conscious patient who is showing signs of hypoglycemia Unconscious diabetic patient with a documented low blood sugar Conscious diabetic patient suspected of being hyperglycemic Semiconscious patient with signs and symptoms of low blood sugar
Conscious patient who is showing signs of hypoglycemia
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of epinephrine? 1) Secreted naturally by the adrenal glands 2) Dilates passages in the lungs 3) Constricts the blood vessels 4) Decreases heart rate and blood pressure
Decreases heart rate and blood pressure
Which of the following would NOT cause a decrease in tidal volume? 1) Shallow Breathing 2) Deep Respirations 3) Irregular breathing 4) Agonal respirations
Deep Respirations
Which of the following structures is contained within the mediastinum? Question 9 options: 1) Lungs 2) Larynx 3) Bronchioles 4) Esophagus
Esophagus
Based on current guidelines, in which of the following situations should supplemental oxygen be administered? 1) Signs of myocardial infarction and an oxygen saturation of 97% 2) Exposure to carbon monoxide and an oxygen saturation of 95% 3) Any diabetic patient whose oxygen saturation is less than 98% 4) Any elderly patient whose oxygen saturation is less than 95%
Exposure to carbon monoxide and an oxygen saturation of 95%
What medication form does oral glucose come in? Question 2 options: 1) Gel 2) Liquid 3) Suspension 4) Fine powder
Gel
Which of the following statements regarding glucose is correct? Question 9 options: 1) Glucose is a complex sugar that rapidly absorbs into the bloodstream. 2) Glucose is a simple sugar that is readily absorbed by the bloodstream. 3) Glucose is given to patients who are suspected of being hyperglycemic. 4) Glucose is usually administered by the EMT via the intravenous route.
Glucose is a simple sugar that is readily absorbed by the bloodstream.
Which of the following is an example of a symptom? Cyanosis Headache Tachycardia Hypertension
Headache
Which of the following statements regarding oxygenation and ventilation is correct? Question 3 options: 1) In carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, ventilation is impaired because CO binds to oxygen very quickly. 2) Oxygenation is the movement of air into and out of the lungs, whereas ventilation is the exchange of gases. 3) In mines or confined places, where oxygen levels are low, ventilation may continue despite adequate oxygenation. 4) Oxygenation without adequate ventilation can occur in climbers who quickly ascend to an altitude of lower atmospheric pressure.
In mines or confined places, where oxygen levels are low, ventilation may continue despite adequate oxygenation.
Which of the following would cause an increase in the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide? 1) Increased cardiac output 2) Cardiopulmonary arrest 3) Anaerobic metabolism 4) Excessive ventilation
Increased cardiac output
Which of the following medication routes would be the MOST appropriate to use in an unresponsive patient when intravenous access cannot be obtained? Question 6 options: 1) Intraosseous 2) Intramuscular 3) Subcutaneous 4) Transcutaneous
Intraosseous
Which of the following routes of medication administration has the fastest effect? Oral Intravenous Subcutaneous Intramuscular
Intravenous
Which of the following is the MOST rapidly acting medication administration route? Question 5 options: 1) Sublingual (SL) 2) Intravenous (IV) 3) Subcutaneous (SC) 4) Intramuscular (IM)
Intravenous (IV)
How does CPAP improve oxygenation and ventilation in patients with certain respiratory problems? 1) It forces the alveoli open and pushes oxygen across the alveolar membrane 2) It pushes thick, infected pulmonary secretions into isolated areas of the lung 3) It decreases intrathoracic pressure, which allows more room for lung expansion 4) It prevents alveolar collapse by pushing air into the lungs during inhalation
It forces the alveoli open and pushes oxygen across the alveolar membrane
How does positive-pressure ventilation affect cardiac output? 1) There is no effect on cardiac output because positive-pressure ventilation is the act of normal breathing. 2) It decreases intrathoracic pressure, which facilitates venous return to the heart and increases cardiac output. 3) It causes pressure in the chest to decrease, which increases stroke volume and cardiac output. 4) It increases intrathoracic pressure, which decreases venous return to the heart and causes a decrease in cardiac output.
It increases intrathoracic pressure, which decreases venous return to the heart and causes a decrease in cardiac output.
You are assessing a patient with respiratory distress and are unsure if the cause is congestive heart failure (CHF) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Which of the following clinical signs would be the MOST helpful in determining whether the patient has CHF or COPD? 1) Rapid breathing 2) Cyanosis of the skin 3) Altered mental status 4) Jugular vein distention
Jugular vein distention
Which of the following MOST accurately describes paradoxical movement of the chest wall? 1) Multiple rib fractures that cause a marked deformity of the chest wall 2) A marked decrease in chest wall movement due to abdominal breathing 3) Only one section of the chest rises on inspiration, while another area falls 4) One side of the chest wall moves opposite the direction of the other
Only one section of the chest rises on inspiration, while another area falls
Which of the following medication routes has the slowest rate of absorption? 1) Oral 2) Rectal 3) Inhalation 4) Sublingual
Oral
Which of the following statements regarding medications is FALSE? Many medications are known by different names. Some medications affect more than one body system. Over-the-counter drugs must be prescribed by a physician. EMTs should ask about any herbal remedies or vitamins that the patient may be taking.
Over-the-counter drugs must be prescribed by a physician.
Which of the following statements regarding oxygen is correct? 1) Oxygen cylinders must always remain in an upright position. 2) Oxygen is flammable and may explode if under high pressure. 3) Oxygen supports the combustion process and may cause a fire. 4) Oxygen is most safely administered in an enclosed environment.
Oxygen supports the combustion process and may cause a fire.
A 60-year-old male presents with acute respiratory distress. He is conscious and alert, has pink and dry skin, and has respirations of 22 breaths/min with adequate depth. Which of the following treatments is MOST appropriate for this patient? Question 4 options: 1) Assisted ventilation with a bag-valve mask and a head-to-toe exam 2) Oxygen via nonrebreathing mask and a focused secondary assessment 3) Positive-pressure ventilations and immediate transport to the closest hospital 4) Oxygen via a nasal cannula, vital signs, and prompt transport to the hospital
Oxygen via nonrebreathing mask and a focused secondary assessment
Which of the following statements regarding parenteral medications is correct? 1) Tylenol is an example of a parenteral medication because it is taken orally. 2) Parenteral medications are absorbed more quickly than enteral medications. 3) Compared to enteral medications, parenteral medications have fewer side effects. 4) 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 breathing adequacy is correct? 1) Patients with a grossly irregular breathing pattern usually do not require assisted ventilation. 2) The single most reliable sign of breathing adequacy in the adult is his or her respiratory rate. 3) Patients breathing shallowly may require assisted ventilation despite a normal respiratory rate. 4) A patient with slow respirations and adequate depth will experience an increase in minute volume. Patients breathing shallowly may require assisted ventilation despite a normal respiratory rate.
Patients breathing shallowly may require assisted ventilation despite a normal respiratory rate.
Which of the following statements regarding pulse oximetry is correct? Question 1 options: 1) The pulse oximeter is a valuable assessment tool that measures the percentage of red blood cells that contain hemoglobin molecules. 2) Caution must be exercised when using the pulse oximeter on a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning because falsely low readings are common. 3) Pulse oximetry measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen, but does not measure the actual hemoglobin content of the blood. 4) Most otherwise healthy patients can maintain adequate oxygenation and good skin color with oxygen saturation readings as low as 70% to 80%.
Pulse oximetry measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen, but does not measure the actual hemoglobin content of the blood.
An unconscious patient found in a prone position must be placed in a supine position in case he or she: 1) Requires CPR 2) Begins to vomit 3) Regains consciousness 4) Has increased tidal volume
Requires CPR
Which of the following conditions would be LEAST likely to result in hypoxia? 1) Pleural effusion 2) Severe anxiety 3) Pulmonary edema 4) Narcotic overdose
Severe anxiety
Which of the following factors will cause a decreased minute volume in an adult? 1) Shallow breathing 2) Increased tidal volume 3) Respirations of 20 breaths/min 4) Slight decrease in respiratory rate
Shallow breathing
Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) would MOST likely be contraindicated in which of the following situations? 1) Pulmonary edema, history of hypertension, and anxiety 2) Difficulty breathing, two-word dyspnea, and tachycardia 3) Shortness of breath and a blood pressure of 76/56 mm Hg 4) Conscious and alert patient with an oxygen saturation of 85%
Shortness of breath and a blood pressure of 76/56 mm Hg
Which of the following clinical signs would necessitate the administration of naloxone (Narcan)? Question 5 options: 1) Tachycardia 2) Hypertension 3) Slow respirations 4) Extreme agitation
Slow respirations
How is nitroglycerin usually given by the EMT? Question 3 options: 1) Orally 2) Inhaled 3) Injected 4) Sublingually
Sublingually
Which of the following is an example of a rules-based medication error? 1) The EMT administers a drug that is contraindicated for the patient. 2) The EMT administers the correct drug, but gives it by the wrong route. 3) The EMT administers a drug that is not approved by the medical director. 4) The EMT accidentally gives a higher drug dose than what is indicated.
The EMT administers a drug that is not approved by the medical director.
Which of the following statements regarding the mechanism of injury (MOI) is correct? 1) A nonsignificant MOI rules out the possibility of serious trauma. 2) The MOI may allow you to predict the severity of a patient's injuries. 3) The exact location of a patient's injuries can be determined by the MOI. 4) 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 auto-injector is correct? 1) The adult auto-injector delivers 0.5 to 1 mg of epinephrine. 2) The auto-injector delivers epinephrine via the subcutaneous route. 3) The epinephrine auto-injector delivers a preset amount of the drug. 4) EMTs do not need physician authorization to use the auto-injector.
The epinephrine auto-injector delivers a preset amount of the drug.
Which of the following statements regarding the hypoxic drive is correct? Question 9 options: 1) The hypoxic drive stimulates a person to breathe on the basis of low oxygen levels. 2) Chronic carbon dioxide elimination often results in activation of the hypoxic drive. 3) The hypoxic drive serves as the primary stimulus for breathing in healthy individuals. 4) 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.
What is the MOST common cause of airway obstruction in an unconscious patient? Question 1 options: 1) Vomitus 2) The tongue 3) Blood clots 4) Aspirated fluid
The tongue
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? Question 6 options: 1) Sublingual 2) Intraosseous 3) Subcutaneous 4) Transcutaneous
Transcutaneous
Which of the following diseases is potentially drug resistant and is thought to be transmitted by coughing? Tuberculosis Croup Diphtheria Epiglottitis
Tuberculosis
Which of the following is an example of a trade (brand) name of a drug? 1) Tylenol 2) Ibuprofen 3) Furosemide 4) Nitroglycerin
Tylenol
Albuterol, a beta-2 agonist, is the generic name for: Alupent. Metaprel. Brethine. Ventolin.
Ventolin.
Which of the following statements regarding positive pressure ventilation is correct? 1) Positive pressure ventilation allows blood to naturally be pulled back to the heart from the body 2) With positive pressure ventilation, more volume is required to have the same effects as normal breathing 3) To prevent hypotension, the EMT should increase the rate and force of positive pressure ventilation 4) Unlike negative pressure ventilation, positive pressure ventilation does not affect the esophageal opening pressure
With positive pressure ventilation, more volume is required to have the same effects as normal breathing
When administering naloxone (Narcan) via the intranasal route, the EMT should administer: 1) at least 2 mL into each nostril. 2) a half dose into each nostril. 3) a minimum of 2.5 mg. 4) a maximum of 0.5 mL.
a half dose into each nostril.
During your assessment of a patient with respiratory distress, you hear wheezing when listening to breath sounds. This indicates: Question 7 options: 1) fluid in the alveoli. 2) secretions in the airway. 3) a lower airway obstruction. 4) swelling of the upper airway.
a lower airway obstruction.
Hyperventilation could be associated with all of the following, EXCEPT: Question 5 options: 1) a narcotic overdose. 2) a respiratory infection. 3) an overdose of aspirin. 4) high blood glucose levels.
a narcotic overdose.
A sudden onset of difficulty breathing, sharp chest pain, and cyanosis that persists despite supplemental oxygen is MOST consistent with: severe pneumonia. myocardial infarction. a pulmonary embolism. a spontaneous pneumothorax.
a pulmonary embolism.
When auscultating the lungs of a patient with respiratory distress, you hear adventitious sounds. This means that the patient has: Question 5 options: 1) normal breath sounds. 2) abnormal breath sounds. 3) diminished breath sounds. 4) an absence of breath sounds.
abnormal breath sounds.
The process by which medications travel through body tissues until they reach the bloodstream is called: adsorption. onset of action. absorption. transformation.
absorption.
You are dispatched to a residence for a 67-year-old female who was awakened by shortness of breath and sharp chest pain. Her husband tells you that she was recently discharged from the hospital after having hip surgery. Your assessment reveals dried blood around her mouth, facial cyanosis, and an oxygen saturation of 88%. You should suspect: Question 4 options: 1) acute pulmonary edema. 2) right-sided heart failure. 3) acute pulmonary embolism. 4) spontaneous pneumothorax.
acute pulmonary embolism.
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: Question 8 options: 1) an obstructed airway. 2) adequate air exchange. 3) respiratory difficulty. 4) respiratory insufficiency.
adequate air exchange.
Gas exchange in the lungs is facilitated by: Question 6 options: 1) adequate amounts of surfactant. 2) water or blood within the alveoli. 3) surfactant-destroying organisms. 4) pulmonary capillary constriction.
adequate amounts of surfactant.
When administering supplemental oxygen to a hypoxemic patient with a chronic lung disease, you should: Question 3 options: 1) recall that most patients with chronic lung diseases are stimulated to breathe by increased carbon dioxide levels. 2) adjust the flow rate accordingly until you see symptom improvement, but be prepared to assist his or her ventilations. 3) begin with a low oxygen flow rate, even if the patient is unresponsive, because high-flow oxygen may depress his or her breathing. 4) 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.
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 auto-injectors on your ambulance and have been trained and approved by your medical director to administer them. As your partner gives the patient supplemental oxygen, you attempt to contact medical control but do not have a signal from your cell phone. You should: Question 3 options: 1) notify dispatch and request that a paramedic unit respond to the scene so they can administer epinephrine to the patient. 2) administer epinephrine to the patient, begin immediate transport, and attempt to contact medical control en route to the hospital. 3) place her in a supine position, keep her warm, begin transport to the hospital, and request a paramedic intercept en route. 4) 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.
The process of binding or sticking to a surface is called: Question 3 options: 1) adsorption. 2) absorption. 3) suspension. 4) digestion.
adsorption.
In the presence of oxygen, the cells convert glucose into energy through a process called: Question 2 options: 1) perfusion. 2) respiration. 3) aerobic metabolism. 4) anaerobic metabolism.
aerobic metabolism.
Your protocols state that during the first few minutes of working on a cardiac arrest patient, you should provide passive ventilation. This means that you will: Question 8 options: 1) deliver positive-pressure ventilation at rate of only 5 or 6 breaths/min. 2) ventilate with a bag-valve mask that is not attached to oxygen. 3) time your positive-pressure ventilations to occur during chest recoil. 4) allow recoil of the chest between compressions to draw air into the lungs.
allow recoil of the chest between compressions to draw air into the lungs.
A 62-year-old man with a history of congestive heart failure presents with severe respiratory distress and with an oxygen saturation of 82%. When you auscultate his lungs, you hear widespread rales. He is conscious and alert, is able to follow simple commands, and can only speak in two- to three-word sentences at a time. You should: 1) place him in a position of comfort, deliver oxygen via nasal cannula, and closely monitor his breathing. 2) apply a CPAP device, monitor his blood pressure, and observe him for signs of improvement or deterioration. 3) force fluid from his alveoli by hyperventilating him with a bag-valve mask at a rate of at least 20 breaths/min. 4) place him in a supine position and assist his ventilations with a bag-valve mask and high-flow oxygen.
apply a CPAP device, monitor his blood pressure, and observe him for signs of improvement or deterioration.
A 49-year-old 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 (Viagra), and enalapril (Vasotec). His blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg and his heart rate is 110 beats/min. In addition to administering supplemental oxygen if needed, you should: Question 8 options: 1) obtain physician approval to give the nitroglycerin. 2) place him in a supine position and transport at once. 3) administer one nitroglycerin and call medical control. 4) ask him if he took his Viagra within the past 24 hours.
ask him if he took his Viagra within the past 24 hours.
You receive a call for a 70-year-old female with respiratory distress. Her husband tells you that she has congestive heart failure; however, he does not think that she has been taking her medications as prescribed. The patient is laboring to breathe, appears tired, and has cyanosis around her lips. You should: Question 9 options: 1) assist her ventilations with a bag-valve mask. 2) apply a pulse oximeter and assess her vital signs. 3) administer oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask. 4) obtain a complete list of all of her medications.
assist her ventilations with a bag-valve mask.
A 62-year-old male is seen 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 supplemental oxygen if needed and contacting medical control, you should: 1) begin immediate transport and request a rendezvous with a paramedic unit. 2) assist him with his nitroglycerin unless his systolic blood pressure is less than 100 mm Hg. 3) administer up to three doses of nitroglycerin before assessing his blood pressure. 4) 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 patient is found unconscious after falling from a third-floor window. His respirations are slow and irregular. You should: place him in the recovery position. apply oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask. suction his airway for up to 15 seconds. assist his breathing with a bag-mask device.
assist his breathing with a bag-mask device.
You and your partner are treating a 66 year old man who experienced a sudden onset of respiratory distress. he is conscious but is unable to follow simple verbal commands. Further assessment reveals that his breathing is severely labored and his oxygen saturation is 80%. you should: 1) Attempt to insert an oropharyngeal airway 2) assist his ventilations with a bag valve mask 3) Administer continuous positive airway pressure 4) apply high flow oxygen via nonrebreathing mask
assist his ventilations with a bag valve mask
A 37-year-old male is found unresponsive 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: Question 6 options: 1) asthma. 2) heart disease. 3) hypertension. 4) allergic reactions.
asthma.
Bronchospasm is MOST often associated with: asthma. bronchitis. pneumonia. pneumothorax.
asthma.
You are delivering oxygen to a patient with a nasal cannula at 4 L/min when he begins to complain of a burning sensation in his nose. You should: A. remove the nasal cannula. B. apply a nonrebreathing mask. C. attach an oxygen humidifier. D. increase the flow rate to 6 L/min.
attach an oxygen humidifier.
An EMT may administer aspirin to a patient if: Question 9 options: 1) the patient is currently experiencing hypotension. 2) authorization from medical control has been obtained. 3) transport time to the hospital is greater than 30 minutes. 4) the patient is believed to be experiencing an acute stroke.
authorization from medical control has been obtained.
Subcutaneous injections deliver the medication: 1) directly into the muscle tissue. 2) between the skin and the muscle. 3) below the first layer of muscle. 4) through the mucosa under the tongue.
between the skin and the muscle.
Activated charcoal is indicated for patients who have ingested certain drugs and toxins because it: acts as a direct reversal agent for most medications. induces vomiting before the chemical can be digested. detoxifies the drug before it can cause harm to the patient. binds to chemicals in the stomach and delays absorption.
binds to chemicals in the stomach and delays absorption.
A medication with antagonistic properties is one that: Question 1 options: 1) stimulates receptor sites and allows other chemicals to attach to them. 2) enhances the effects of another medication when given in a higher dose. 3) blocks receptor sites and prevents other chemicals from attaching to them. 4) produces a cumulative effect when mixed with the same type of medication.
blocks receptor sites and prevents other chemicals from attaching to them.
Alkalosis is a condition that occurs when: Question 10 options: 1) blood acidity is reduced by excessive breathing. 2) dangerous acids accumulate in the bloodstream. 3) the level of carbon dioxide in the blood increases. 4) slow, shallow breathing eliminates too much carbon dioxide.
blood acidity is reduced by excessive breathing.
Breathing is controlled by an area in the: lungs. brain stem. spinal cord. diaphragm.
brain stem.
Epinephrine is given to patients with anaphylactic shock because of its effects of: bronchodilation and vasodilation. bronchodilation and vasoconstriction. vasodilation and bronchoconstriction. bronchoconstriction and vasoconstriction.
bronchodilation and vasoconstriction.
The nasopharyngeal airway is MOST beneficial because it: 1) can effectively stabilize fractured nasal bones if it is inserted properly. 2) is generally well tolerated in conscious patients with an intact gag reflex. 3) effectively maintains the airway of a patient in cardiopulmonary arrest. 4) can maintain a patent airway in a semiconscious patient with a gag reflex.
can maintain a patent airway in a semiconscious patient with a gag reflex.
Medications encased in a gelatin shell that are taken by mouth are called: 1) pills. 2) tablets. 3) caplets. 4) capsules.
capsules.
The primary waste product of aerobic metabolism is: Question 1 options: 1) lactic acid. 2) pyruvic acid. 3) carbon dioxide. 4) adenosine triphosphate.
carbon dioxide.
When assessing an elderly male who complains of nausea and generalized weakness, you find that he takes atorvastatin (Lipitor) and amlodipine (Norvasc). These medications suggest a history of: 1) bacterial infection. 2) cardiovascular disease. 3) reactive airway disease. 4) non-insulin-dependent diabetes.
cardiovascular disease.
Oxygen toxicity is a condition in which: Question 10 options: 1) excessive blood oxygen levels cause the hypoxic patient to stop breathing. 2) cellular tissue damage occurs from excessive oxygen levels in the blood. 3) significantly low levels of oxygen in the blood damage the cellular tissue. 4) decreased levels of oxygen in the blood result in free radical production.
cellular tissue damage occurs from excessive oxygen levels in the blood.
The respiratory distress that accompanies emphysema is caused by: 1) repeated exposure to cigarette smoke. 2) chronic stretching of the alveolar walls. 3) massive constriction of the bronchioles. 4) acute fluid accumulation in the alveoli.
chronic stretching of the alveolar walls.
You are treating a middle-aged 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 cardiac-related chest pain or discomfort. While your partner is preparing to give oxygen to the patient, you should: Question 8 options: 1) confirm that the patient is not allergic to aspirin, give him the appropriate dose of aspirin, and document the time and dose given. 2) contact medical control, apprise him or her of the patient's chief complaint and vital signs, and request permission to give him aspirin. 3) ensure that the patient's systolic blood pressure is at least 100 mm Hg as aspirin dilates the blood vessels and can cause a drop in blood pressure. 4) 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.
While en route to the scene of a shooting, the dispatcher advises you that the caller states that the perpetrator has fled the scene. You should: 1) ask the dispatcher if he or she knows the location of the perpetrator. 2) confirm this information with law enforcement personnel at the scene. 3) request law enforcement personnel if the scene is unsafe upon arrival. 4) proceed to the scene as usual but exercise extreme caution upon arrival.
confirm this information with law enforcement personnel at the scene.
You are dispatched to a movie theater for a 39-year-old female with signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. As you are assessing her, she pulls an epinephrine auto-injector out of her purse and hands it to you. After confirming the drug's name and expiration date, you should: Question 4 options: 1) administer the drug. 2) contact medical control. 3) ask her if she takes other medications. 4) request an ALS ambulance to administer the drug.
contact medical control.
To select the proper size oropharyngeal airway, you should measure from the: 1) corner of the mouth to the earlobe. 2) center of the mouth to the posterior ear. 3) corner of the mouth to the superior ear. 4) angle of the jaw to the center of the mouth.
corner of the mouth to the earlobe.
The __________ cartilage is a firm ring that forms the inferior part of the larynx. Question 1 options: 1) cricoid 2) thyroid 3) laryngeal 4) pyriform
cricoid
A young female is unconscious after intentionally ingesting a large amount of aspirin. You will MOST likely find her respirations: Question 8 options: 1) slow and deep. 2) deep and rapid. 3) slow and shallow. 4) rapid and shallow.
deep and rapid.
When administered to a patient, a metered-dose inhaler will: deliver the same dose each time it is administered. be ineffective when given to patients with asthma. deliver a different dose each time it is administered. be delivered to the lungs over a period of 6 to 8 hours.
deliver the same dose each time it is administered.
A conscious and alert 29-year-old 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 supplemental oxygen, you should: 1) place her in a recumbent position to facilitate breathing. 2) contact medical control and administer an antihistamine. 3) call medical control and ask how to proceed with treatment. 4) determine if she has been prescribed a beta-agonist inhaler.
determine if she has been prescribed a beta-agonist inhaler.
Inhalation occurs when the: Question 5 options: 1) diaphragm and intercostal muscles relax and cause an increase in intrathoracic pressure. 2) diaphragm and intercostal muscles ascend and cause an increase in intrathoracic pressure. 3) diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract and cause a decrease in intrathoracic pressure. 4) diaphragm ascends and the intercostal muscles contract, causing a decrease in intrathoracic pressure.
diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract and cause a decrease in intrathoracic pressure.
All of the following are causes of acute dyspnea, EXCEPT: asthma. emphysema. pneumothorax. pulmonary embolism.
emphysema.
A 37-year-old male has an apparent foreign body airway obstruction. He is conscious and alert and is coughing forcefully. His skin is pink, warm, and moist. The MOST appropriate treatment for this patient includes: 1) a series of back blows and chest thrusts. 2) finger sweeps to remove the obstruction. 3) a series of abdominal thrusts. 4) encouraging him to cough and transporting.
encouraging him to cough and transporting
The leaf-shaped structure located superior to the larynx is called the: 1) epiglottis. 2) vallecula. 3) cricoid ring. 4) thyroid cartilage.
epiglottis.
An acute bacterial infection that results in swelling of the flap that covers the larynx during swallowing is called: croup. laryngitis. epiglottitis. diphtheria.
epiglottitis.
A 30-year-old 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 high-flow oxygen, the MOST important treatment for this patient is: Question 8 options: 1) albuterol. 2) epinephrine. 3) an antihistamine. 4) a beta-antagonist.
epinephrine.
With regard to pharmacology, the term "action" refers to the: ability of a drug to cause harm. ability of a drug to produce side effects. amount of time it will take the drug to work. expected effect of a drug on the patient's body.
expected effect of a drug on the patient's body.
At the onset of an acute asthma attack, patients commonly experience difficulty breathing and: Question 9 options: 1) audible stridor. 2) rales and rhonchi. 3) profound cyanosis. 4) expiratory wheezing.
expiratory wheezing.
Despite your attempts to coach a conscious young female's respirations, she continues to hyperventilate with a marked reduction in tidal volume. You should: Question 4 options: 1) restrain her and provide ventilatory assistance. 2) insert a nasopharyngeal airway and give oxygen. 3) explain to her that you will assist her ventilations. 4) ventilate her at the rate at which she is breathing.
explain to her that you will assist her ventilations.
The process of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and the blood of the capillaries is called: 1) external respiration. 2) cellular metabolism. 3) pulmonary ventilation. 4) alveolar ventilation.
external respiration.
Activated charcoal is frequently suspended in sorbitol, a complex sugar that: Question 10 options: 1) significantly slows the process of digestion. 2) binds to any chemicals that are in the stomach. 3) facilitates movement through the digestive system. 4) disguises the unpleasant taste of the activated charcoal.
facilitates movement through the digestive system.
A pleural effusion is MOST accurately defined as: Question 7 options: 1) a unilaterally collapsed lung. 2) diffuse collapsing of the alveoli. 3) fluid accumulation outside the lung. 4) a bacterial infection of the lung tissue.
fluid accumulation outside the lung.
The __________ of a medication usually dictates the route by which it will be administered. 1) type 2) form 3) class 4) name
form
CPAP is indicated for patients who: 1) have signs of pneumonia but are breathing adequately. 2) are unresponsive and have signs of inadequate ventilation. 3) have pulmonary edema and can follow verbal commands. 4) are hypotensive and have a marked reduction in tidal volume.
have pulmonary edema and can follow verbal commands.
If ventilation is impaired, carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream will increase. This condition is called: Question 8 options: 1) acidosis. 2) hypoxia. 3) hypoxemia. 4) hypercarbia.
hypercarbia.
The medical term for an extremely low blood glucose level is: Question 7 options: 1) hypoglycemia. 2) hyperglycemia. 3) hypotension. 4) hypertension.
hypoglycemia.
The MOST significant complication associated with oropharyngeal suctioning is: Question 8 options: 1) oral abrasions from vigorous suctioning. 2) hypoxia due to prolonged suction attempts. 3) clogging of the catheter with thick secretions. 4) vomiting from stimulating the anterior airway.
hypoxia due to prolonged suction attempts.
Advil, Nuprin, and Motrin are trade (brand) names for the generic medication: Question 5 options: 1) aspirin. 2) nitrostat. 3) ibuprofen. 4) acetaminophen.
ibuprofen.
Asthma is caused by a response of the: Question 4 options: 1) immune system. 2) endocrine system. 3) respiratory system. 4) cardiovascular system.
immune system.
Hypoxia is MOST accurately defined as: 1) low venous oxygen levels. 2) a decrease in arterial oxygen levels. 3) an increase in carbon dioxide in the blood. 4) inadequate oxygen to the tissues and cells.
inadequate oxygen to the tissues and cells.
In a healthy individual, the brain stem stimulates breathing on the basis of: 1) increased oxygen levels. 2) decreased oxygen levels. 3) increased carbon dioxide levels. 4) decreased carbon dioxide levels.
increased carbon dioxide levels.
In an otherwise healthy individual, the primary stimulus to breathe is a(n): increased level of oxygen in the blood. decreased level of oxygen in the blood. increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood. decreased level of carbon dioxide in the blood.
increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood.
All of the following will help minimize the risk of gastric distention when ventilating an apneic patient with a bag-valve mask, EXCEPT: Question 4 options: 1) delivering each breath over 1 second. 2) ensuring the appropriate airway position. 3) ventilating the patient at the appropriate rate. 4) increasing the amount of delivered tidal volume.
increasing the amount of delivered tidal volume.
You are dispatched to an apartment complex where a 21-year-old female has apparently overdosed on several narcotic medications. She is semiconscious and has slow, shallow respirations. You should: 1) insert an oropharyngeal airway and perform oral suctioning. 2) apply oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask and transport at once. 3) insert a nasopharyngeal airway and begin assisted ventilation. 4) place her in the recovery position and monitor for vomiting.
insert a nasopharyngeal airway and begin assisted ventilation.
The two processes that occur during respiration are: Question 3 options: 1) ventilation and diffusion. 2) inspiration and expiration. 3) diffusion and oxygenation. 4) oxygenation and ventilation.
inspiration and expiration.
You are assisting an asthma patient with his prescribed metered-dose inhaler. After the patient takes a deep breath and depresses the inhaler, you should: Question 3 options: 1) instruct him to hold his breath for as long as he comfortably can. 2) immediately reapply the oxygen mask and reassess his condition. 3) advise him to exhale forcefully to ensure medication absorption. 4) allow him to breathe room air and assess his oxygen saturation.
instruct him to hold his breath for as long as he comfortably can.
A mucosal atomizer device (MAD) is used to deliver certain medications via the: Question 4 options: 1) intranasal route. 2) inhalation route. 3) sublingual route. 4) transdermal route.
intranasal route.
Upon arriving at the scene of a patient with difficulty breathing, you determine that the scene is safe. You enter the residence and find the patient siting in a chair in respiratory distress. Your first action should be to: 1) ask the patient what's wrong. 2) obtain a set of baseline vital signs. 3) assess the patient's airway status. 4) introduce yourself to the patient.
introduce yourself to the patient.
You are dispatched to a residence where a middle-aged man was found unconscious in his front yard. There are no witnesses who can tell you what happened. You find him in a prone position; his eyes are closed and he is not moving. Your FIRST action should be to: Question 2 options: 1) palpate for the presence of a carotid pulse. 2) log roll him as a unit to a supine position. 3) assess the rate and quality of his breathing. 4) open his airway with a jaw-thrust maneuver.
log roll him as a unit to a supine position.
The hypoxic drive is influenced by: Question 9 options: 1) high blood oxygen levels. 2) low blood oxygen levels. 3) low blood carbon dioxide levels. 4) high blood carbon dioxide levels.
low blood oxygen levels.
Complications associated with using a manually triggered ventilation device include: Question 2 options: 1) inadequate ventilation and hypercarbia. 2) lung tissue injury and gastric distention. 3) inadequate oxygenation and tracheal injury. 4) reduced tidal volume delivery and hypoxia.
lung tissue injury and gastric distention.
A drug is contraindicated for a patient when it: 1) is used to treat a multitude of conditions. 2) may cause harm or has no positive effect. 3) produces actions other than the desired ones. 4) is used to treat a specific medical condition.
may cause harm or has no positive effect.
Each cell of the body combines nutrients and oxygen and produces energy and waste products through a process called: 1) respiration. 2) ventilation. 3) metabolism. 4) oxygenation.
metabolism.
The diastolic blood pressure represents the: 1) average pressure against the arterial walls during a cardiac cycle. 2) minimum amount of pressure that is always present in the arteries. 3) increased arterial pressure that occurs during ventricular contraction. 4) difference in pressure between ventricular contraction and relaxation.
minimum amount of pressure that is always present in the arteries.
The chief complaint is MOST accurately defined as the: 1) most life-threatening condition that you discover. 2) condition that exacerbates an underlying problem. 3) most serious thing the patient is concerned about.
most serious thing the patient is concerned about.
As the single EMT managing an apneic patient's airway, the preferred initial method of providing ventilations is the: 1) mouth-to-mouth technique. 2) one-person bag-valve mask. 3) manually triggered ventilation device. 4) mouth-to-mask technique with a one-way valve.
mouth-to-mask technique with a one-way valve.
EMTs respond to a known heroin abuser who is unresponsive. If they give naloxone (Narcan) to this patient, the EMTs should recall that: Question 1 options: 1) naloxone should be administered in increments of 2 mg. 2) the effects of naloxone last longer than most opioid drugs. 3) naloxone should not be given if the patient's breathing is slow. 4) naloxone administration could cause seizures in this patient.
naloxone administration could cause seizures in this patient.
A patient who is suspected of being hypoxic and is breathing adequately should be given supplemental oxygen with a: 1) nasal cannula. 2) nonrebreathing mask. 3) bag-valve mask. 4) mouth-to-mask device.
nonrebreathing mask.
The EMT should assess a patient's tidal volume by: observing for adequate chest rise. assessing the facial area for cyanosis. counting the patient's respiratory rate. measuring the patient's oxygen saturation.
observing for adequate chest rise.
EMTs arrive at the scene of a patient who was "found down." A family member states that she gave naloxone (Narcan) to the patient before the ambulance arrived. The EMTs should suspect that the patient: 1) overdosed on an opioid drug. 2) has a low blood glucose level. 3) experienced a prolonged seizure.
overdosed on an opioid drug.
In order for efficient pulmonary gas exchange to occur: Question 7 options: 1) the percentage of inhaled carbon dioxide must exceed the percentage of inhaled oxygen. 2) there must be low quantities of pulmonary surfactant to allow for full alveolar expansion. 3) the pulmonary capillaries must be completely constricted and the alveoli must be collapsed. 4) oxygen and carbon dioxide must be able to freely diffuse across the alveolar-capillary membrane.
oxygen and carbon dioxide must be able to freely diffuse across the alveolar-capillary membrane.
With regard to the assessment of a patient's cardiovascular status, capillary refill time is MOST reliable in: 1) patients who are younger than 6 years of age. 2) patients who are significantly hypotensive. 3) patients who were exposed to cold temperatures. 4) patients who are older than 70 years of age.
patients who are younger than 6 years of age.
In ___________ administration, you are administering medication to yourself or your partner. Question 1 options: 1) peer-assisted 2) patient-assisted 3) EMT-administered 4) paramedic-administered
peer-assisted
Shortly after assisting a 65-year-old 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: Question 2 options: 1) transport her in a sitting position. 2) wait 5 minutes and reassess her blood pressure. 3) place her in a supine position. 4) assist ventilations with a bag-valve mask.
place her in a supine position.
Aspirin is beneficial to patients suspected of having a heart attack because it: Question 7 options: 1) reduces the associated chest pain. 2) dissolves the coronary artery clot. 3) causes direct coronary vasodilation. 4) prevents the aggregation of platelets.
prevents the aggregation of platelets.
A 22-year-old female patient is complaining of dyspnea and numbness and tingling in her hands and feet after an argument with her fiancé. Her respirations are 40 breaths/min. You should: Question 5 options: 1) have her breathe into a paper or plastic bag. 2) provide reassurance and give oxygen as needed. 3) request a paramedic to give her a sedative. 4) position her on her left side and transport at once.
provide reassurance and give oxygen as needed.
When palpating a patient's pulse, you note that there is a short interval between pulsations. This indicates that the pulse is: 1) slow. 2) rapid. 3) irregular. 4) thready.
rapid.
A 31-year-old 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: Question 2 options: 1) check the drug's expiration date to ensure that it is still current. 2) contact medical control and apprise him or her of what you did. 3) reassess the patient and document her response to the medication. 4) administer another treatment in 30 seconds if she is still in distress.
reassess the patient and document her response to the medication.
Nitroglycerin, when given to patients with cardiac-related chest pain: 1) relaxes the walls of the coronary arteries. 2) increases myocardial contraction force. 3) increases blood return to the right atrium. 4) constricts the veins throughout the body.
relaxes the walls of the coronary arteries.
You are ventilating an apneic woman with a bag-valve mask. She has dentures, which are tight fitting. Adequate chest rise is present with each ventilation, and the patient's oxygen saturation reads 96%. When you reassess the patency of her airway, you note that her dentures are now loose, although your ventilations are still producing adequate chest rise. You should: Question 6 options: 1) remove her dentures, resume ventilations, and assess for adequate chest rise. 2) attempt to replace her dentures so that they fit tightly and resume ventilations. 3) leave her dentures in place, but carefully monitor her for an airway obstruction. 4) remove her dentures at once and increase the rate and volume of your ventilations.
remove her dentures, resume ventilations, and assess for adequate chest rise.
While providing CPAP to a patient in severe respiratory distress, you note that his heart rate has increased by 20 beats/min. He is conscious, but is no longer following verbal commands. You should: 1) decrease the amount of pressure that the CPAP device is delivering. 2) remove the CPAP device and ventilate him with a bag-valve mask. 3) increase the amount of pressure that the CPAP device is delivering. 4) remove the CPAP device and apply oxygen by nonrebreathing mask.
remove the CPAP device and ventilate him with a bag-valve mask.
A 19-year-old female is found unconscious by her roommate. Your primary assessment reveals that her breathing is inadequate. As you insert an oropharyngeal airway, she begins to gag violently. You should: 1) continue to insert the airway as you suction her oropharynx. 2) remove the airway and be prepared to suction her oropharynx. 3) insert the airway no further but leave it in place as a bite block. 4) select a smaller oropharyngeal airway and attempt to insert it.
remove the airway and be prepared to suction her oropharynx.
You are managing a 62-year-old woman who complains of crushing chest pain. Her blood pressure is 84/64 mm Hg and her heart rate is 110 beats/min. Medical control advises you to assist her in taking her prescribed nitroglycerin. After receiving this order, you should: reassess the patient's heart rate and then assist with the nitroglycerin. repeat the patient's blood pressure to the physician and confirm the order. wait 10 minutes, reassess the blood pressure, and then give the nitroglycerin. administer the nitroglycerin to the patient and then reassess her blood pressure.
repeat the patient's blood pressure to the physician and confirm the order.
When interviewing a patient, you can show him or her that you understand the situation by: 1) repeating statements back to him or her. 2) using medical terminology whenever possible. 3) maintaining constant eye contact with him or her. 4) interrupting him or her as needed for clarification.
repeating statements back to him or her
You and your partner are ventilating an apneic adult when you notice that his stomach is becoming distended. You should: suction his airway for up to 15 seconds. reposition his head. increase the rate and volume of your ventilations. decrease your ventilation rate but use more volume.
reposition his head.
Prior to applying a nonrebreathing mask to a patient, you must ensure that the: Question 10 options: 1) one-way valve is sealed. 2) flow rate is set at 6 L/min. 3) reservoir bag is fully inflated. 4) patient has reduced tidal volume.
reservoir bag is fully inflated.
The process in which oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in the lungs is called: respiration. ventilation. metabolism. inhalation.
respiration.
When the level of arterial carbon dioxide rises above normal: Question 6 options: 1) the brain stem inhibits respirations. 2) respirations increase in rate and depth. 3) exhalation lasts longer than inhalation. 4) respirations decrease in rate and depth.
respirations increase in rate and depth.
You have inserted an oral airway and are ventilating an apneic woman with a bag-valve mask. She suddenly begins regurgitating large amounts of vomit. You should: Question 5 options: 1) perform a finger sweep of her mouth. 2) insert a nasal airway and then suction her mouth. 3) roll her onto her side and remove the oral airway. 4) remove the oral airway and suction her oropharynx.
roll her onto her side and remove the oral airway.
You are ventilating a patient with a stoma; however, air is escaping from the mouth and nose. To prevent this, you should: 1) thrust the jaw forward. 2) seal the mouth and nose. 3) ventilate with less pressure. 4) thoroughly suction the stoma.
seal the mouth and nose.
A 70-year-old man recently had a heart attack and now complains of severe difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. He is coughing up pink, frothy secretions. This patient is MOST likely experiencing: acute right heart failure. severe left heart failure. an acute onset of bronchitis. an acute pulmonary embolism.
severe left heart failure.
Signs of adequate breathing in the adult include all of the following, EXCEPT: pink, warm, dry skin. shallow chest rise. symmetrical chest movement. a respiratory rate of 16 breaths/min.
shallow chest rise.
Dyspnea is MOST accurately defined as: Question 6 options: 1) shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. 2) a complete cessation of respiratory effort. 3) a marked increase in the exhalation phase. 4) labored breathing with reduced tidal volume.
shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
After taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for an allergic reaction, a person begins experiencing drowsiness and a dry mouth. These findings are an example of a(n): Question 10 options: 1) side effect. 2) untoward effect. 3) therapeutic effect. 4) unpredictable effect.
side effect.
Jugular venous distention suggests a problem with blood returning to the heart if the patient is: 1) in a supine position. 2) in a prone position. 3) in a recumbent position. 4) sittng up at a 45° angle.
sittng up at a 45° angle.
Central chemoreceptors located in the medulla provide feedback to increase the rate and depth of breathing when they sense: 1) slight increases in carbon dioxide or a decrease in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid. 2) slight decreases in carbon dioxide and an increase in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid. 3) decreased levels of oxygen in the blood and an increase in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid. 4) increased levels of oxygen in the blood and a decrease in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid.
slight increases in carbon dioxide or a decrease in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid.
A 59-year-old 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? Question 2 options: 1) rupture of the diaphragm 2) exacerbation of his COPD 3) acute pulmonary embolism 4) spontaneous pneumothorax
spontaneous pneumothorax
While eating dinner, your partner suddenly grabs his throat and has a panicked look on his face. He has a weak cough, faint inspiratory stridor, and cyanosis around the lips. You should: Question 10 options: 1) encourage him to cough as forcefully as he can. 2) deliver up to five back blows and reassess him. 3) place him in a supine position and open his airway. 4) stand behind him and administer abdominal thrusts.
stand behind him and administer abdominal thrusts.
When assessing for fluid collection in the lungs during auscultation of lung sounds, you should: Question 10 options: 1) note the presence of a high-pitched whistling sound, which is an indicator of fluid in the lungs. 2) pay special attention to the exhalation phase because this is when you will likely hear rales or rhonchi. 3) auscultate the posterior chest first and compare the apex of one lung to the base of the opposite lung. 4) start at the lower lung fields and determine at which level you start hearing clear breath sounds.
start at the lower lung fields and determine at which level you start hearing clear breath sounds.
Harsh, high-pitched inspiratory sounds are characteristic of: Question 6 options: 1) rales. 2) stridor. 3) rhonchi. 4) wheezing.
stridor.
Pharmacology is defined as the: study of cells and tissues. study of drugs and medications. effects of medications in the lungs. distribution of drugs to the body's tissues.
study of drugs and medications.
Proper technique for suctioning the oropharynx of an adult patient includes: Question 4 options: 1) continuously suctioning patients with copious oral secretions. 2) suctioning while withdrawing the catheter from the oropharynx. 3) removing large, solid objects with a tonsil-tip suction catheter. 4) suctioning for up to 1 minute if the patient is well oxygenated.
suctioning while withdrawing the catheter from the oropharynx.
Activated charcoal is an example of a(n): Question 10 options: 1) suspension. 2) solution. 3) elixir. 4) gel.
suspension.
Common signs and symptoms of acute hyperventilation syndrome include: Question 1 options: 1) altered mental status and bradycardia. 2) unilateral paralysis and slurred speech. 3) anxiety, dizziness, and severe bradypnea. 4) tachypnea and tingling in the extremities.
tachypnea and tingling in the extremities.
Structures of the lower airway include all of the following, EXCEPT: 1) alveoli. 2) the trachea. 3) the epiglottis. 4) bronchioles.
the epiglottis.
The term "pharmacology" is MOST accurately defined as: Question 9 options: 1) the study of drugs that are produced illegally. 2) the study of how medications affect the brain. 3) the study of drugs and their actions on the body. 4) the study of drug excretion from the human body.
the study of drugs and their actions on the body.
The main advantage of the Venturi mask is: 1) the ability to adjust the percentage of inspired oxygen when caring for a critically ill or injured patient. 2) the use of its fine adjustment capabilities in the long-term management of physiologically stable patients. 3) that it does not contain an oxygen reservoir, so the same percentage of oxygen can consistently be administered. 4) the ability to adjust the amount of oxygen administered to the patient by increasing the flow rate on the regulator.
the use of its fine adjustment capabilities in the long-term management of physiologically stable patients.
When a patient's respirations are shallow: 1) chest rise will be easily noticeable. 2) tidal volume is markedly reduced. 3) oxygenation occurs more efficiently. 4) carbon dioxide elimination is increased.
tidal volume is markedly reduced.
During insertion of an oropharyngeal airway into an unconscious patient, she begins to vomit. The first thing you should do is: turn the patient on her side. remove the airway at once. suction the patient's mouth. use a smaller-sized oral airway.
turn the patient on her side.
A properly sized blood pressure cuff should cover: 1) two thirds the length from the armpit to the crease at the elbow. 2) one half the length between the armpit and the crease at the elbow. 3) one third the length from the armpit to the crease at the elbow. 4) the entire upper arm between the armpit and the crease at the elbow.
two thirds the length from the armpit to the crease at the elbow.
When ventilating an apneic adult with a bag-valve mask, you should squeeze the bag: until it is empty. over a period of 2 seconds. at a rate of 20 breaths/min. until visible chest rise is noted.
until visible chest rise is noted.
While evaluating a patient with chest pain, your partner tells you that the patient's blood pressure is 140/94 mm Hg. The lower number represents the pressure from the: 1) atria relaxing. 2) atria contracting. 3) ventricles relaxing. 4) ventricles contracting.
ventricles relaxing.
The nasal cannula is MOST appropriately used in the prehospital setting: Question 3 options: 1) when the patient cannot tolerate a nonrebreathing mask. 2) if the patient's nasopharynx is obstructed by secretions. 3) if long-term supplemental oxygen administration is required. 4) when the patient breathes primarily through his or her mouth.
when the patient cannot tolerate a nonrebreathing mask.
A nasopharyngeal airway is inserted: Question 9 options: 1) with the bevel facing the septum if inserted into the right nare. 2) into the larger nostril with the tip pointing away from the septum. 3) with the bevel pointing downward if inserted into the left nare. 4) into the smaller nostril with the tip following the roof of the nose.
with the bevel facing the septum if inserted into the right nare.
A patient with spontaneous respirations is breathing: 1) at a normal rate. 2) with shallow depth. 3) without difficulty. 4) without assistance.
without assistance
