Flashcard 1
Acrocyanosis refers to which of the following? Pink core and cyanotic extremities Cyanotic core and cyanotic extremities Pink core and pink extremities Cyanotic core and pink extremities
Acro = extremity Cyano = blue Osis = condition of
Which of the following changes would you most likely NOT see with a pregnant adult female? Decrease in heart rate Odd cravings Increased heart rate Hypotension
Depending on where the woman is in her pregnancy, you will at some point see all of the following changes, except a decrease in heart rate. This question is referring to changes that are maintained, not acute, temporary changes.
You notice that your 10-month-old patient is performing belly breathing. This signifies which of the following? Normal breathing Loud breathing Rapid breathing Labored breathing
Don't assume anything with this patient, EXCEPT the information it has provided you. In the absence of sternal or intercostal retractions, belly breathing is completely normal.
Excessive pain during menstruation is known as? Dysmenorrhea Menorrhagia Diplopia Menopause
Dysmenorrhea
The heart wall is made up of all of the following layers except? Pericardium Endocardium Myocardium Visceral Layer
The pericardium is the layer around the heart, and does not comprise a part of the heart wall itself.
The portion of the nervous system that is responsible for delivering motor impulses to skeletal muscle is? Somatic nervous system Parasympathetic nervous system Sympathetic nervous system Autonomic nervous system
The peripheral nervous system splits into two branches: autonomic and somatic. The somatic nervous system is consciously controlled and voluntary in nature. The autonomic nervous system is unconsciously controlled and involuntary in nature. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are divisions of the autonomic nervous system.
Which of the following is not one of the three phases of the uterine menstrual cycle? Ovular Menstruation Secretory Proliferative
The three phases of the uterine menstrual cycle are: proliferative, secretory, and menstruation.
You are assessing an unresponsive 2-month-old female. You note cyanosis around the lips and her parents tell you she has been sick for a couple days. Pulse - 52, R - 20, SpO2 - 90%, CBG - 73. What is your first priority? Start compressions Deliver ventilation by BVM Rapid transport Administer high flow O2
This patient is not adequately perfusing and once you see a heart rate under 60, you should start compressions immediately.
During pregnancy, what changes occur to the mother's body? Increased stroke volume Decreased blood volume Decrease in the plasma volume Slowed heart rate
increase in the stroke volume. Remember, stroke volume is the amount of blood expelled from the heart each time the heart beats.
When assessing infants, apnea lasting longer than twenty seconds is classified as? Serious apnea Minor apnea Absolute apnea Complete apnea
serious apnea
The fetus' umbilical cord is made up of how many arteries and how many veins? 2 arteries and 1 vein 3 arteries and 2 veins 3 arteries and 1 vein 1 artery and 2 veins
2 arteries and 1 vein
At full term, how much fluid can the amniotic sac hold? 500-1000 milliliters 100-250 milliliters 1-2 liters 10-20 milliliters
500-1000 mil. This should be expected when a woman's water breaks.
You have been dispatched to the local high school for a seizure. Your patient is a 15-year-old female who began to seize during a school assembly. Her friends are hysterical and attention of everyone is focused on the seizing student. Your patient has been exhibiting tonic-clonic activity and moaning loudly for the past 4 minutes. The patient does have a history of seizures as well as several psychiatric conditions. Although unable to obtain a BP due to her movement, you palpate a strong radial pulse of 70 bpm and the pulse oximeter reads 99%. It also is brought to your attention that the patient's boyfriend broke up with her this morning. What do you suspect is wrong with your patient? Pseudoseizure Status Epilepticus Grand mal seizure Petit mal seizure
A pseudoseizure is a psychogenic nonepileptic seizure that occur as a result of psychological causes. A patient will not be able to verbalize during a real seizure and it will also result in a decrease in respiratory activity, as the diaphragm experiences tonic-clonic activity (this inhibits normal breathing and will cause the patient's oxygen saturation to drop) - your patient's SpO2 is 99%.
After successfully giving birth to an 8lb 5oz baby boy, your neonatal patient presents with the following: HR 160, respirations are unable to osculate due to severe crying, normal movement that would be expected in a newborn, he grimaces when you stimulate his slightly cyanotic feet. What is this newborn's APGAR score? 8 12 10 6
A: 1. P: 2. G: 1. A: 2. R: 2. Total = 8
A 2-year-old child is choking on a piece of her mother's jewelry. Her airway is severely obstructed. The proper maneuver is: Perform a series of abdominal thrusts Check the patient's mouth with blind finger sweeps Perform a series of back blows until the item is expelled Deliver 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts
Abdominal thrusts are the appropriate maneuver for children over 1 year of age. The series of back blows and chest thrusts is appropriate for infants. You should never check a pediatric patient's mouth with blind finger sweeps.
How does activated charcoal eliminate ingested poisons? Through adsorption By chemically neutralizing them Through absorption Through the blood stream
Adsorption is the process of binding something to itself. Activated charcoal will adsorb poisons to the body of its molecule and hold them through the digestive processes so they are not absorbed by the system.
You arrive to find a patient who fell five feet off a porch and landed on his head. He is unresponsive, has gurgling respirations, and is bleeding from a head wound. What is the patient's most immediate life threat? Airway compromise Head injury Hypovolemic shock Severe external bleeding
Airway compromise is this patient's immediate life threat due to the gurgling, which indicates there is probable airway obstruction.
Which of the following is not a sign of severe respiratory distress in a pediatric patient? Wheezing Retractions Nasal flaring See-saw breathing
Although wheezing indicates less-than-adequate air movement, it could be normal for an asthma patient. See-saw breathing, nasal flaring, and retractions are all last ditch efforts by the body to optimize oxygenation and ventilation.
During your initial assessment, you observe that the patient can only answer questions in two-word sentences. Based on this finding, you should? Administer oxygen at 15 L/min via NRB Ask the patient why he can't speak in full sentences Administer oxygen at 6 L/min via NC Place the patient supine and assist respirations
Any patient who is seen to have trouble breathing should be administered oxygen. In this patient, the most appropriate treatment would be oxygen via non-rebreather mask, due to the severity of the troubled breathing.
You are assessing a 7-month-old patient who was diagnosed with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) early this week by her doctor. The patient's father called 911 after it became apparent that her respiratory distress was getting worse. Physical assessment of the patient reveals intercostal retractions, nasal flaring, and lethargy. You obtain a set of vitals. Which of the following vitals would you consider to be life-threatening in this patient? Respiratory rate: 80 Temperature: 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit Heart rate: 150 SpO2: 93%
Any respiratory rate greater than 70 in this age range should be considered life-threatening.
You are assessing a newborn male. You find the patient to have a pulse of 88, weak breathing, flexed arms, strong cry upon stimulation and pink extremities. You would determine the APGAR score to be? 8 9 7 6
Appearance - 2, Pulse - 1 (because its <100), Grimace - 2, Activity - 2, Respirations - 1 (weak)
Your ambulance is the first to arrive at the scene of a multiple-vehicle accident that spreads across both lanes of a 2-lane freeway. What is the best position for your ambulance? Park behind the accident and block all lanes of travel Park in front of the accident and block all lanes of travel Park in front of the accident for easy egress from the scene Park behind the accident, but allow vehicles to get by on the shoulder
As the first responder on scene, you have the responsibility of scene safety. All you know from the question is that the accident spreads across both lanes of traffic. It may be safe to open up the shoulder for traffic to get through at a later time, but initially, all lanes should be blocked by positioning your ambulance behind the accident.
You and your partner arrive on scene to a patient who has been involved in an MVA. As you approach the patient you notice the patient breathing in sequences of uniformly deep gasps, apnea, then more gasps. What is the name of the respiratory pattern? Biot's Respirations Agonal Respirations Cheyne-Stokes Respirations Kussmaul Respirations
As you answer questions like this, picture the waveform that the description would create. Compare that mental picture to the ones you've see in your textbooks! Biot's respirations are caused by damage to the pons of the brain stem and in this case, secondary to what we can safely assume is head/facial trauma.
At 41 weeks, where should you be able to palpate the fundus in a pregnant patient? Xiphoid Process Pelvic Girdle Sternal notch Umbilicus
At 20 weeks, you should be able to palpate the fundus near the umbilicus. At 40 weeks, you should be able to palpate the fundus near the xiphoid process.
The body regulates blood pressure through a number of mechanisms. A critical component of this system is receptors that respond to changes in blood pressure. These receptors are called? Baroreceptors Mechanoreceptors Chemoreceptors Neuroreceptors
Baroreceptors are receptors that detect pressure. They are a type of mechanoreceptor.
Which breathing pattern is characterized as having an irregular pattern, rate, and depth with intermittent patterns of apnea? Biot Ataxic Agonal Cheyne-Stokes
Biot respirations may indicate severe brain injury or brain stem herniation
When blood passes over plaque that has built up in the carotid arteries it creates a unique sound. This sound is referred to as? Carotid Bruit .. Carotid Stridor Carotid Wheeze Carotid Gallop
Bruit
What is the cause of digital clubbing? Chronic hypoxia Hyperventilation Rhabdomyolysis Congestive heart failure
Chronic Hypoxia. Digital clubbing is a sign of chronic hypoxia in young people with congenital heart disease and older people with severe chronic lung disease
A law that is created or upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court is known as? Common law Constitutional law Legislative law Administrative law
Common law is created by judges or as a result of cases heard in court. Common law changes over time as society's norms and customs change
What is the narrowest portion of the pediatric airway? Cricoid cartilage Hyoid bone Arytenoid cartilage Thyroid cartilage
Cricoid cartilage is the lowest portion of the larynx. It is the first ring on trachea and the only upper airway structure that forms a complete ring.
When transporting a 28-year-old, 38-week pregnant woman who has fallen from an unknown height, what would be the most appropriate position to transport her in? Supine, spinally immobilized, while tilted slightly to the left Position of comfort, as the mother instinctively knows what is safe for herself and her baby Lying lateral-recumbent on her left side with a c-collar Supine, while spinally immobilized in the Trendelenburg position
Due to the pregnancy, the entire backboard would have a slight tilt to the left to relieve pressure off of the inferior vena cava. The Trendelenburg position is not used in EMS and should immediately be omitted as an answer.
What occurs inside the body during exhalation? Intrathoracic pressure increases External intercostal muscles contract Intrathoracic volume increases The diaphragm contracts
During exhalation, the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles are relaxing, which decreases the volume of the intrathoracic cavity and as a result of all of that... the pressure increases. Now, take a deep breath to feel those changes occur from when you go from inspiration to exhalation
Which of the following terms is defined as the force exerted on the ventricle walls at the end of diastole? Preload Stroke Volume Ejection Fraction Afterload
Ensure you have a solid foundation of cardiac A&P. You should memorize how a drop of blood travels through the major anatomical structures.
You respond to a 5-year-old male in respiratory distress. When you arrive, you find your patient sitting on his mother's lap. He is working to breathe and you see drool from his mouth. His mother informs you that her son has been sick for a few days with what she assumed to be an upper respiratory infection. The patient has a pulse of 130, RR of 40, and BP of 90/40. Which of the following is the child most likely suffering from? Epiglottitis Influenza RSV Croup
Epiglottitis commonly has difficulty breathing, history of recent illness, and drooling as symptoms.
You have been dispatched for a patient with chest pain at a private residence. The patient states that he was laying in bed, attempting to take a nap when his chest pain started. He rates his pain as constant "10/10" and describes the pain as burning in the center of his chest. He is also complaining of shortness of breath. Which of the following physical findings would be the least pertinent to your physical exam? Moves all extremities Clear and equal lung sounds bilaterally Pinpoint tenderness in URQ Equal chest rise and fall
Every patient's airway, breathing, and circulation should be assessed. Although the patient is complaining of chest pain and shortness of breath, you should also assess the abdomen with any cardiac complaints.
While treating a newborn, you hear your partner describe the patient as having acrocyanosis. This refers to which of the following descriptions? Pink core and blue extremities Blue core and blue extremities Normal skin color Fear of heights
Every time you're shown a medical term, try and break it up. Acro refers to extremities and cyano refers to blue.
You're called to a private residence for a 72-year-old male who has an altered mental status. VS are BP 102/58, HR 104, RR 6/min, SpO2 is 88%. What should be your first intervention? Place an appropriately sized NPA Place the patient in spinal precautions Check the patient's temperature Ventilate the patient with a BVM
First things first. If you're going to ventilate the patient using a BVM you need to first place an appropriately sized OPA or NPA or both. As always, follow your local protocols out in the field.
If you are performing an effective fundal massage, the mother should feel what? Cramping sensation Burning sensation Relief Moderate pain
Fundal massage will help to shrink the uterus and help control postpartum bleeding.
Which of the following is NOT a contraindication to Aspirin? GERD Pregnancy Active bleeding Hypersensitivity
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is also known as acid reflux. It is not a contraindication to administering aspirin.
When used in reference to a pregnant patient, gestation means? The time period from conception to delivery The number of times she has been pregnant When she used the bathroom last What she ate last
Gestation is the amount of time between conception and delivery.
Which patient is at risk for the most common causes of upper airway obstruction? 21-year-old female unconscious and supine on the floor 22-year-old female stung by a wasp 5-year-old female with epiglottitis 4-year-old male with croup
Her head position could occlude the airway or her tongue could fall back into the mouth causing an airway obstruction. The tongue is the most common upper airway obstruction in adults
You respond to a 23-year-old male in cardiac arrest. CPR is in progress when you arrive and you quickly take over compressions. The most important interventions that will affect this patient's outcome are? High quality compressions and quick defibrillation Early notification to receiving hospital and quick defibrillation High quality ventilations and rapid transport High quality compressions and high quality ventilations
High quality compressions, performed at the proper rate and depth (that allow for adequate recoil) AND early defibrillation are the two most important interventions for the cardiac arrest patient.
Which of the following biological agents does not spread through a population easily? Anthrax Plague Smallpox Hemorrhagic fever
If exposed to the actual agent, anthrax can infect people but transmission between one person and another does not occur readily
You respond to a 28-year-old female with vaginal bleeding. The patient tells you that she gave birth three days prior, and was just released from the hospital yesterday. She describes the bleeding as being dark red clots with some minor continuous bleeding. How should you treat this patient? Have the patient lie on the gurney in the position of most comfort Place bulky dressings over the area and transport supine Visually inspect the area and transport the patient Have the patient lie on the gurney with her legs elevated
If you do not suspect a life-threatening bleed (shock), you are okay to transport in the position of most comfort. Maintaining modesty will be your top priority and the patient should remain covered.
All of the following happens during inhalation, except? Diaphragm moves upward Diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract Air flows into lungs Ribs move upward and outward
If you have trouble with this question, take a deep breath and observe what happens to your body. The size of your thoracic cavity is increasing when you inhale and that's caused by your diaphragm moving downward
When ventilating a patient with a bag-valve-mask, the proper rate is important because hyperventilating the patient can result in? Reduced blood flow to the heart Increased gag reflex Increased muscle tone Increased blood flow to the heart
If you hyperventilate a patient you may be creating a high pressure in the chest cavity which can reduce blood flow through the heart
You are assessing a newborn infant. Which of the following breathing rates are you most likely going to see in a healthy newborn? 40-60/min 12-20/min 70/min 80/min
In a healthy baby, you will generally see a respiratory rate of 40-60/min.
Your 23-year-old female patient just delivered a baby. As you assess the neonate, you note that he is having trouble breathing. You discover his pulse to be 50 bpm, and cyanosis around the lips and fingers. What is your first intervention? Start compressions Allow the baby to begin feeding Administer breaths via BVM Suction the airway
In a neonate, the key number is 60. If their heart rate is below 60, start compressions immediately. If the heart rate is 60-100, assist the patient with ventilations via BVM.
You are off-duty at a local gym when you witness an elderly female collapse. You call out for assistance from the front desk to call 911, grab the AED off the wall, run to her aid, and verify that she is pulseless. How should you proceed? Apply the AED, analyze, and shock if advised Begin compressions with one hand while simultaneously applying the AED Reposition the airway Begin compressions
In a witnessed collapse when an AED is immediately available, the priority is to apply the AED and deliver a shock as soon as possible. In an unwitnessed collapse, or when an AED is not immediately available, we'll start with compressions immediately. Unfortunately, there is no effective way to do compressions and apply an AED, so that one's out.
Your patient is a 9-year-old female who is unusually quiet according to her mother. She looks distant and is responding to verbal commands. When you take her vitals, you notice a slowed pulse. You suspect she is experiencing? Hypoxia Stroke Hypoglycemia Hypotension
In children, hypoxia often presents as altered mental status and bradycardia. Hypoxia occurs when there is a deprivation of oxygen to the body.
You are conducting your primary assessment of a patient complaining of difficulty breathing. Using your knowledge of anatomy and physiology, you know that inspiration is __________ and _________ compared to expiration which is __________ and _________. Active and shorter; passive and longer Active and longer; passive and shorter Passive and longer; active and shorter Passive and shorter; active and longer
Inspiration is shorter than expiration (approximately a ratio of 1:3). Inspiration is an active process, requiring contraction of the diaphragm in order to take place. Expiration occurs passively as the diaphragm relaxes.
If you are unsure about the presence of a pulse in an unconscious patient, which of the following actions does the AHA recommend you take? Start compressions Check the popliteal pulse Attach the AED Start ventilations only
It is recommended that you start compressions in this case. Unnecessary compressions are less harmful to a patient than failing to give compressions.
Your patient is a 5-year-old male who hit his head on a rock after falling from a tree. Compared to an adult with head trauma, he is more likely to exhibit which of the following signs or symptoms? Vomiting Tachycardia Bradycardia Altered mental state
It is relatively common for children to experience nausea and vomiting after head trauma. In adults, it usually only occurs in cases of severe trauma.
The expectation of EMS personnel to treat all patients equally with respect and to not show any bias or judgment is called? Justice HIPPA Morals Ethics
Justice is the expectation for EMS personnel to treat each patient fairly and not show any bias in patient care based upon demographics, race, sex, religion, gender, culture, socioeconomic states, etc.
_________ marks the beginning of the first menstrual cycle. __________ marks the end of the menstrual cycle and also signals the end of ovarian function. Menarche; menopause Puberty; menarche Menopause; menstruation Puberty; menopause
Menarche signals the beginning of the menstrual cycle during puberty and usually occurs around the age of 12 (can occur earlier or later). Menopause marks the end of the menstrual cycle and usually occurs around the age of 52 (can occur earlier or later). The ovaries stop functioning with the onset of menopause.
You are dispatched non-emergent to a 23-year-old pregnant female with abdominal pain. Your ambulance is the only unit to be dispatched and when you arrive, you realize that it is an imminent birth. How should you first proceed with the delivery? Call for additional EMS units to assist Place the mother on oxygen and don proper PPE Ask the mother to stop pushing while you prepare a sterile site for the birth Put the mother on the stretcher
Most births are not emergencies, but you must recognize that you're about to have two patients: the mother and the newborn baby. Call for additional units early so their response is not delayed.
Labored breathing is indicative of respiratory distress. Signs of distress include? Muscle retractions above the clavicle Movement of the abdomen Audible chest breath sounds from both sides of the lungs Regular rise and fall of both sides of the chest
Movement of the abdomen
Beck's Triad consists of what 3 signs? Muffled heart tones, hypotension and jugular vein distension Tachycardia, Dyspnea, hypotension Jugular vein distension, hypotension, wheezing Bradycardia, muffled heart tones, dyspnea
Muffled heart tones, hypotension and jugular vein distension
While performing your initial assessment of a patient, which of the following skin colors should be of most concern to you? Cyanotic Mottled Flushed Pink
Normal healthy skin should be pink, warm, and dry. Although flushed and mottled skin can be a result of health problems, cyanotic skin is indicative of an apparent life-threat: inadequate oxygenation of the blood
Which of the following instrument can be used to visually assess the eardrum? Otoscope Oncoscope Ophthalmoscope Orcoscope
Oto = ear
You are called to a private home where a 4-year-old female is experiencing cardiac problems. Which of the following is NOT a useful indicator of hypoperfusion in this case? Oxygen saturation Skin condition Tachycardia Capillary refill
Oxygen saturation is not a reliable measure of perfusion, but rather a measure of oxygen saturation in blood. (Even as an indicator of respiratory status, SpO2 is fairly unreliable because it can give false readings due to movement, nail polish, incorrect placement, etc
Due to the potential for life-threatening hemorrhage, patients presenting with possible placenta previa should be treated for? Shock Dehydration Abruptio placentae Hypertensive crisis
Patients with active hemorrhage should always be treated for shock.
You are on scene with a 7-year-old male patient involved in a motor vehicle crash. He is complaining of head, neck, and back pain. As you begin spinal immobilization of this patient, you notice his head is large and is causing hyperflexion of his neck. Where should you place padding in pediatric patients when performing spinal immobilization? Underneath the shoulders and torso No padding is necessary Underneath the entire upper torso including the head Under the neck and head
Pediatric patients tend to have larger heads in comparison to their body which causes the hyperflexion. Placing padding underneath their shoulders and torso will reduce the natural hyperflexion of the their neck when they are supine
When speaking on the integumentary system of pediatrics, their skin is generally _______ and has _______ subcutaneous fat. Thinner , less Thicker , more Thinner , more Thicker , less
Pediatric populations have thinner skin with less subcutaneous fat than the adult populations.
Your patient is a 33-year-old female who is G4P3 and due in one month. Her husband called 911 when she began experiencing moderate, bright red vaginal bleeding. She has no complaints but is continuing to bleed. What do you think is wrong with your patient? Placenta previa Eclampsia Ectopic pregnancy Abruptio placenta
Placenta previa is characterized by painless, bright red bleeding that usually occurs later in pregnancies. It occurs more often in older women who have had previous births. It can become a life-threatening condition if the bleeding is not stopped
You respond to a woman who is 37-weeks pregnant. Her blood pressure is 168/96 and you notice her hands and feet are swollen. She states she has a terrible headache and blurry vision. What is this patient's condition called? Preeclampsia Hypertension Hyperemesis gravidarum Supine hypertensive syndrome
Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs in late pregnancies that is characterized by hypertension, severe headache, blurry vision, and fluid retention.
You respond to a 33-year-old pregnant female with vaginal bleeding. She is 28 weeks pregnant, denies pain, and states that bleeding of bright red blood came on suddenly a few hours ago. Vitals: BP 98/68, P 110, R 18, SpO2 97%. What is most likely causing this patient's condition? Placenta previa Abruptio placenta Nuchal cord Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is classified as hypertension with protein in the urine. No indications of either. Nuchal cord is a condition of the umbilical cord being wrapped around the fetal neck. Classic symptoms of placenta previa include: no pain, bright red bleeding, sudden onset. Abruptio placenta generally has abdominal, back or uterine pain associated with it. Definitely a tough question and if you struggled, go to the Obstetrics chapter and review the different pregnancy complications
In pulmonary circulation, ___________ carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart and ____________ carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. Veins; arteries Arteries; veins Venioles; capillaries Capillaries; arterioles
Pulmonary circulation is the opposite of systemic circulation. In pulmonary circulation, veins carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart and arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs.
Pursed (or puckered) lip breathing is a sign of respiratory distress that patients will exhibit in an attempt to do which of the following? Keep the bronchioles from collapsing during exhalation Allow the diaphragm to contract with more force Decrease their tidal volume Increase their lung capacity
Pursed lip breathing is a true sign of respiratory distress. It should be noted while you are placing oxygen on them.
You are assessing a 60-year-old male patient complaining of chest pain. He tells you that the pain is not only felt in his chest but also in his jaw and down his left arm. This is known as: Referred pain Associated Pain Sympathetic Pain Cardiac Pain
Referred pain is pain that is felt in areas other than the site of injury or illness. Pain in the jaw and down the left is common referred pain of a cardiac event.
You have been dispatched for a 5-year-old male in respiratory distress in late January. The patient's mother states that she originally thought he just had a head cold but his condition has worsened and he is having trouble breathing now. Assessment of the patient reveals: BP 114/70, HR 90, RR 36 and labored, SpO2 93%. Bilateral wheezing is heard upon auscultation of lung sounds. What do you think is wrong with your patient? Respiratory syncytial virus Epiglottis Croup Mononucleosis
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common pediatric illness that occurs during winter and early spring. It is characterized by cold-like symptoms early on that progress to moderate-to-severe respiratory symptoms including increased respiratory rate, wheezing, and respiratory distress.
When obtaining a history from your patient, she tells you she has right ventricular failure. Of the following, which signs and symptoms would you expect? Pulmonary edema and hypertension Peripheral edema, JVD, and tender upper right abdominal quadrant from liver engorgement Diffuse rales, pink frothy sputum, and respiratory distress Fluid accumulation in the lungs and extremities and hypotension
Right-sided heart failure will most likely initially present with JVD, peripheral edema, and hepatic engorgement
Use of the pediatric assessment triangle should occur at what time during the patient assessment? Prior to addressing the ABCs When vital signs are showing that the patient is unstable During the secondary survey Once you have made physical contact with the child
The 'pediatric assessment triangle' assesses circulation, work of breathing, and appearance. It's goal is to quickly form an impression of the overall physiological state of the child and ultimately determine if they are 'sick' or 'not sick'. It's performed right when you walk in the room, before you've assessed the ABCs, and doesn't require touching the patient.
A patient who is 37 weeks pregnant is laying on her back. You are having a hard time obtaining a blood pressure. Anatomically, her uterus is compressing the inferior vena cava in her abdomen. This has lead to a decrease in what? Preload Erythrocytes Heart rate Afterload
The compression of the vena cava is reducing the amount of blood returning to the heart, also known as preload. This reduction in preload can decrease blood pressure and cardiac output.
You were dispatched to a pregnancy problem with imminent delivery. While on scene, the mother delivered an infant. You determine the 1-minute APGAR score to be 2 (A:0,P:1,G:0,A:0,R:1) and begin resuscitation of the newborn. The newborn does have slow and irregular respirations with a pulse rate of 30. What should your compression to ventilation ratio be while performing CPR? 3:1 15:1 30:2 15:2
The correct compression to ventilation ratio in newborn resuscitation is 3:1.
Approximately half of the blood that enters fetal circulation is filtered by the liver. The other half bypasses the liver through which vessel? Ductus venosus Septum primum Ductus arteriosus Inferior vena cava
The ductus venosus allows for blood to bypass the liver and go directly to the inferior vena cava
Where is the urethra meatus located in a female? Superior to the vagina Superior mons pubis Inferior to the perineum Inferior to the vagina
The external urethral opening (urethral meatus) is located between the clitoris and the vagina.
Which of the following personnel would have the most knowledge on a hazardous materials incident? Hazardous materials specialist Hazardous materials operator First responder/operations Hazardous materials technician
The hazardous materials specialist will have the most training and knowledge regarding a hazardous materials incident.
You are called to a traffic accident of a motorcycle vs. car. You see the motorcyclist on the road, wearing a helmet, unconscious. He is responsive to pain, supine, and making gurgling sounds. His helmet will obstruct the ability to suction his airway. After checking that the scene is safe, you should first? Remove the helmet while trying to stabilize c-spine as much as possible. Suction the airway. Quickly perform a rapid trauma assessment to search for potential life threats. Leave the helmet on so you can stabilize c-spine, and rotate him so that he is in the recovery Position. Leave the helmet on so you can stabilize c-spine, and reposition his head to open his airway.
The helmet should be removed because the airway is a higher priority than c-spine stabilization. A trauma assessment should be done only after the patient's airway has been made patent.
Maternal blood volume can increase by how much during pregnancy? It increases by as much as 1.5 times normal blood volume It increases by as much as 3 times normal blood volume It increases by as much as 2 times normal blood volume It doesn't increase
The increase in blood volume helps with fetal circulation as well as adjustment for blood loss during and after
An elderly man is found lying unresponsive next to his bed. His wife is unsure what happened or why he is lying unconscious. Once you establish that the patient has a strong carotid pulse, what is your next priority? Jaw-thrust maneuver Activate a modified-trauma Assess respirations Apply 100% supplemental oxygen
The jaw-thrust maneuver should be used to open the airway because it is unknown if the patient experienced trauma. Just as you should, this question is following the C-A-B assessment.
The left atrium is responsible for which of the following actions? Receiving blood from the lungs Pumping blood to the body Pumping blood to the lungs Receiving blood from the veins of the body
The left atrium is responsible for receiving blood from the lungs. This blood is oxygenated.
Has a history of right ventricular failure.The most common cause of right ventricular failure is: Chronic hypertension Left ventricular failure COPD Infarct of the right ventricle
The most common cause of right ventricular failure is left ventricular failure
You are treating a 2-year-old pediatric patient and palpate a brachial pulse of 134 beats per minute. What are the normal limits set for a child of this age? 80-120 65-100 100-160 100-180
The normal range for a child of this age is 80-120 bpm. A normal range for a newborn is 100-180. A 1-year-old should have a pulse between 100-160. A normal pulse for a child older than 3 years falls between 65-110 beats per minute
Blood follows a specific pathway through the heart. After traveling through the right atrium, blood goes through which valve into and then into the right ventricle? Tricuspid Valve Bicuspid Valve Pulmonary Valve Aortic Valve
The pathway of blood through the heart is superior/inferior vena cava, right atrium, tricuspid valve, right ventricle, lungs for oxygenation, pulmonary valve, left atrium, bicuspid valve, left ventricle, aortic valve, aorta.
It is a cold winter night and you are called to a 60-year-old male in his apartment. He fell asleep in his bathtub with the outside window wide open. The patient says he is cold, but is not shivering. He is calm, but is confused when answering questions. The ambient temperature in the apartment is warm, about 69 degrees Fahrenheit. His pulse is 52, respirations 10, skin is pale and cold. You should? Administer oxygen and transport immediately, providing passive rewarming. Administer oxygen and transport immediately, encouraging the patient to drink hot water. Administer oxygen and transport immediately, providing active rewarming. Administer oxygen, cover the man with a blanket, and stay on scene for additional time to monitor his vitals.
The patient is severely hypothermic, as shown by his vitals and lack of shivering. Active re-warming should not be provided to a severely hypothermic patient. You should never give a patient something hot to drink
While performing a physical exam on a 2-month-old male, you notice his belly rapidly (40 times per minute) expanding and contracting. What is the most likely cause of this clinical finding? The patient is breathing normally The patient has the hiccups The patient is rapidly deteriorating and this is an ominous sign of approaching arrest The patient has air in his abdomen due to a perforated diaphragm
The rapid expansion and contraction of the patient's abdomen most likely is caused by him breathing. It is important to remember that children are "belly breathers." While they do use their chest muscles to breathe, their abdomens can move much more noticeably. Each movement of the patient's abdomen should correspond with inspiratory or expiratory lung sounds. If the movement is not matched with respiratory effort, something else may be going on.
How many blood vessels does a normal umbilical cord have? 3 4 2 1
The umbilical cord has two arteries and one vein. The umbilical arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the fetus and the umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood to the fetus.
In supine hypotensive syndrome, the uterus becomes large enough that, when laying supine, it compresses which blood vessel? Inferior vena cava Abdominal aorta Superior vena cava Aortic arch
The uterus can become large enough (usually in the second half of a pregnancy) to compress the inferior vena cava in the abdomen when the patient is in a supine position
You are called to a 36-year-old female who is having labor pains. She appears to be in active labor and as you inspect the vagina, she begins to bleed excessively prior to crowning. You should immediately? Treat with high-flow O2 and rapid transportation. Place a sanitary napkin over the vaginal opening. Deliver the fetus and control any bleeding. Massage the uterus to slow bleeding. Treat with high-flow O2 and rapid transportation. Gently place a sanitary napkin in the vagina, and replace it every few minutes as needed.
The woman should be transported immediately with high-flow O2, because excessive pre-birth bleeding is a symptom of placenta previa or abruptio placentae. Both are conditions that are life-threatening to both mother and fetus.
Which of the following is not an anatomically correct difference between adult and pediatric patients? The trachea is more flexible in adults The primary cause of cardiac arrest in children is uncorrected respiratory issues Infant's tongues take up proportionally greater space in the mouth than adults Pediatric structures are smaller and more easily obstructed
These types of questions are difficult. Read the question carefully and remember that it is asking for you to find the answer that contains an anatomically incorrect answer. The trachea is much more flexible in children than in adults.
A woman brings her 5-year-old son into the ER. He is pale in appearance and slightly sweaty. His fingers are starting to show signs of cyanosis. His blood pressure is much lower than normal and pulse is much higher. Which of the following would most likely account for his symptoms? Dehydration Laceration Respiratory Failure Hemorrhage
This patient exhibits signs of shock: pallor, sweat, low blood pressure, high pulse, among other symptoms that may not be mentioned. In pediatric patients, shock is most likely caused by dehydration if there are no obvious signs of trauma or hemorrhage
To administer nitroglycerin, an EMT needs to? Ensure that it is appropriate by checking with online medical control Ensure that it is appropriate by checking with offline medical direction Ensure that it is appropriate by checking standing orders Ensure that it is appropriate by checking protocols
To administer nitro, an EMT should check directly with medical control. EMTs are allowed to administer nitro ONLY after being given permission by the online physician
While assessing the airway of a pediatric patient, you need to determine the patency of the airway. Which of the following is helpful in determining if an airway is patent or not? Look for movement of the chest and abdomen Examine the pulse oximetry reading Determine level of consciousness Assess the respiratory rate
Watching for chest and/or abdomen movement is an effective way to determine whether or not the patient's airway is patent. A pulse oximetry reading only tells you the oxygen saturation of the hemoglobin and the respiratory rate only indicates the rate of breathing.
You are called to a suburban home at 5 AM where you find a distressed mother crying and yelling about her baby. She tells you that she had put her 2-month-old to bed at around 10 PM. The mother woke up at around 4 AM, and found her baby lying, unresponsive in her crib. You begin resuscitative efforts en route to the hospital, but the patient is pronounced dead upon arrival to the emergency department. What is a likely cause of death for the baby? SIDS Hematoma Infant Death Accident AIDS
When an infant is found dead without any known cause, it is called SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Often this can occur to a healthy baby during sleep.
The ideal location for a glucose stick on a newborn would be? Heel Palm Hip Right/left index finger
When attempting to obtain a glucose check on a newborn, performing a heel stick is preferred. The fingers are too small and don't allow you to get a good grasp
What is the primary cause of your respiratory rate increasing during exercise, as compared to your respiratory rate at rest? The level of carbon dioxide in the blood is increased Involuntary response of the diaphragm Decreased oxygen available to the cells The pH is higher
When chemoreceptors detect an increased level of CO2 in the blood, they send signals that eventually will speed the rate of breathing in an effort to blow off excess CO2. When there is excess CO2, the blood pH is lower, or more acidic.
You are responding to a MVC and will be the first emergency apparatus arriving on scene. There is no fire or hazardous materials concern. How close to the crash should you park and where should you park your vehicle? Park 50 feet away from the crash and park in front of the crash so oncoming traffic will see your ambulance and stop Park 200 feet away from the crash and park behind the crash, making sure to turn off all emergency lights but turn on your four-way flashers Park 75 feet away from the crash and park behind the crash so the vehicles involved in the crash serve as extra protection for you against traffic Park 100 feet away from the crash and park in front of the crash so oncoming traffic will travel into the other lane and avoid the crash
With no fire or hazardous materials present, you can park 50 feet away from the crash. Make sure to park in front of the crash so oncoming traffic will see your emergency lights and slow to a stop. Designate traffic control as soon as you have the available resources to do so.
You respond to a medical lab for an employee who had an unknown chemical splashed in his eye. Your patient is complaining of a burning feeling in the affected eye. You should? Elevate the patient's head, and pour continuous amounts of NS in the affected eye Elevate patient's head and instruct the patient to blink repeatedly Apply eye drops, if available. Transport immediately Lay the patient flat, and pour copious amounts of water in the affected eye
You should elevate the head to ensure you do not contaminate the uninjured eye and then flush the injured eye with copious amounts of normal saline.
A 68-year-old male patient states that he had a myocardial infarction three years ago. What is he is referring to? When part of his heart muscle died When he had paralysis on one side of his body due to a blockage in his body When he had chest pain and had to go to the hospital When CPR successfully resuscitated him
A myocardial infraction, more commonly referred to as a "heart attack", is when part of the patient's myocardium (heart muscle) is starved for oxygen and dies
You are performing standby at the local elementary school carnival. A teacher comes up to you complaining that they feel light-headed and a little sweaty. Vitals are: BP 122/80, P 88, R 18, CBG 58 mg/dL. The most appropriate treatment for this patient would be? Oral glucose Have the patient drink a glass of water Rapid Transport Have the patient eat a sandwich or have a glass of juice
A normal CBG reading is 80-120 mg/dL. This patient is conscious and able to maintain their airway, based on their ability to talk to you and tell you what's wrong. Administer oral glucose to this patient and recheck their CBG
Which of the following personality disorders are characterized by an acute discomfort in close relationships? Schizotypal Avoidant Dependent Antisocial
A schizotypal personality is one where patients exhibit an acute discomfort with close personal relationship
A law that is created by OSHA is what type of law? Administrative law Legislative law Constitutional law Common law
Administrative laws are those created by either federal or state governmental agencies and administrations. These laws are created based upon statutes.
During a technical rescue, whose safety is the last priority? Rescue patient Rescue team Bystander Yours
Although it may seem counterintuitive, the safety of the rescue patient comes "last" during a technical rescue incident. Patient safety is still very important but the safety of yourself, the rescue team, and any bystanders or involved personnel is more important.
You have responded to a private residence for an unknown medical. When you arrive, your 64-year-old male patient is doubled over on the toilet in obvious discomfort. There is a strong odor of feces and you notice diarrhea on the floor and toilet. The patient reaches out and touches you on the shoulder as he says "I am so sick. Please help me!" There is diarrhea on the patient's hand that is resting on your shoulder. What would be the most appropriate action to prevent further contamination? Wash your hands, wash your uniform, and shower as soon as possible. Use hot water and soap when washing You were wearing gloves so you do not need to wash your hands. Decontaminate the ambulance properly Wash your hands after the call with hot water and soap Gently remove his hand and ask him not to touch you again
Any sick person and/or bodily fluids can result in transmission of an infectious disease if appropriate precautions are not taken. If you think you have been exposed to an infectious disease, it is important to clean yourself and your uniform using hot water and soap. You should always wear gloves and always decontaminate the gurney and ambulance after every call.
Which of the following is not a type of connective tissue? Nerve Cartilage Blood Bone
Bone, blood, and cartilage are all forms of connective tissue. Nervous tissue is a different type of tissue.
The most widely found tissue in the body is: Connective tissue Epithelial tissue Nervous tissue Muscle tissue
Connective tissue accounts for several different types of tissues including fat, bone, cartilage, blood, ligaments, and tendons.
Which vertebrae allows the head to rotate? Axis C4 C3 Atlas
C2, also known as the axis, creates a point where C1 (atlas) can rotate.
What is the biggest risk factor for developing a urinary tract infection? Self-catheterization Frequent urination Being male Poor hand hygiene
Catheter use is associated with a high incidence of urinary tract infection. Any entrance of medical equipment into the body has a good chance of bringing bacteria with it. Frequent urination is a sign of a UTI. Females are at higher risk of UTI's than males because of the shorter urethra. Though hand hygiene is important in preventing infection and illness as a whole, it is not specific to UTI's as catheterization is.
Which of the following reasons could be the cause of a falsely low pulse oximetry reading? Cold extremities Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Anemia Hyperthermia
Cold extremities often mean poor circulation. That can be the underlying cause of a falsely low pulse oximetry readings.
When assessing an unconscious patient, what is your first priority? Does the patient have a pulse? What is the patient's DNR status? Is the patient's airway clear? How well the patient is breathing?
Don't fall for the DNR answer. It might be important to know in some instances, but certainly not a first priority. The other three answers represent the ABC's, but when we assess an unconscious patient, we use C-A-B.
Which of the following is not an environmental hazard that could adversely affect your emergency scene? Traffic Nighttime Temperature Weather
Environmental hazards include time of day, weather, and temperature.
When an emergency apparatus is stationed at a single location for 24 hours or more, this type of system is referred to as? Fixed positioning Unit response area Chute management System status management
Fixed positioning is often used by fire departments that also provide EMS services. Station location is determined by data analysis of call volume and location. System status management involves "posts", or temporary staging areas, for apparatus to park. Busier and larger agencies often use this system.
You respond to the local park to find a homeless man who is complaining of foot pain. When you evaluate the foot, you find an injury that appears to be infected. The wound is surrounded by subcutaneous emphysema and has a foul odor. You should suspect: Gangrene Scabies Sepsis Hand-foot-mouth disease
Gangrene is a deep infection caused by anaerobic bacteria. The bacteria generate an odor and gas that causes the subcutaneous emphysema
Your patient is a 2-year-old female who was chasing the family dog outside when she ran into the play structure. She struck her anterior body on a pole of the play structure and is complaining of severe abdominal pain. Which of the following is the correct order in which to perform your physical assessment of the patient? Head, neck, chest, back, extremities, abdomen Head, neck, chest, abdomen, back, extremities Head, neck, chest, back, extremities. Do not assess the abdomen due to pain. Abdomen, chest, head, neck, back, extremities
In pediatric patients, it is important to assess the area of concern (or injury) last. This gives you time to build patient rapport and gain the trust of the patient. If you go directly to the source of injury, the pediatric patient may think that you are there to hurt them and will no longer be willing to cooperate with you.
Your patient is a 39-year-old male whose chief complaint is respiratory distress, secondary to a bee sting. You are worried about this patient going into anaphylaxis and you know one of the first signs of anaphylaxis to be? Increased heart rate Vasoconstriction Slowed respiratory rate Increased blood pressure
Increased cardiac workload is one of the very first signs of anaphylaxis.
What is the most common route for exposure to a hazardous material? Inhalation Injection Absorption Ingestion
Inhalation is prominent in many accidental an intentional exposures.
Excessive pain during menstruation is known as? Dysmenorrhea Menorrhagia Diplopia Menopause
It is important to distinguish the type of pain and obtain a detailed history in these patients.
You are responding to an MCI at a multiple crash pileup. Upon arrival, the incident commander assigns you the task of triage officer. You should immediately? Perform a triage assessment on all patients Treat all patients that have been tagged black and red Treat priority and critical patients Evacuate all critical patients
It is your job to strictly perform a triage assessment on all patients and apply the appropriate tag. You should not treat anyone until every patient has been accounted for
Which sensory pathways carry information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body? Motor neurons Purkinje fibers Central nervous system Sensory neurons
Motor and sensory neurons are part of the peripheral nervous system. Sensory neurons take the information from the body to the brain and the motor neurons, just the opposite. Purkinje fibers are part of the heart's conduction system.
Which of the following is NOT part of the immune system? Red blood cell Neutrophil Eosinophil Lymphocyte
Neutrophils, Eosinophils and Lymphocytes are all types of white blood cells that help fight infection. Red blood cells function in carrying oxygen and are not apart of the immune system.
What changes when doing CPR on a victim that is pregnant? Nothing The compression rate should be faster to account for both victims Compression hand placement should be higher on the breast bone The compression depth
Nothing changes when doing CPR on a pregnant victim. The survivability of the mother and child depend on adequate perfusion, which can only be achieved by proper hand placement, adequate depth, and a rate of 100 - 120 compressions per minutes
Our bodies have three primary ways to balance pH levels. Which of the following is not one of the three? Pancreas Kidneys Lungs Carbonic Acid-Bicarbonate Buffer System
Of the answers, the pancreas is the only system that is not involved in the balancing of blood pH levels. The easiest way for our bodies to balance pH is through the use of the carbonic acid-bicarb buffer system. Our lungs can adjust pH by retaining or blowing off CO2, while our kidneys can reabsorb, create, or excrete bicarbonate and/or hydrogen ions to maintain homeostasis.
You are called to a private home where a 4-year-old female is experiencing cardiac problems. Which of the following is NOT a useful indicator of hypoperfusion in this case? Oxygen saturation Skin condition Tachycardia Capillary refill
Oxygen saturation is not a reliable measure of perfusion, but rather a measure of oxygen saturation in blood. (Even as an indicator of respiratory status, SpO2 is fairly unreliable because it can give false readings due to movement, nail polish, incorrect placement, etc.)
PID, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, results from an infection of the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, as well as their supporting structures. The two most common bacteria known to cause this disease are? Gonorrhea and Chlamydia HIV and HCV HPV and HAV HPV and HBV
PID affects nearly 1 million women a year. It is caused by the two bacterias gonorrhea and chlamydia
The following criteria are used to assess a patient when using the START triage method? Respirations, Capillary refill, Following simple commands Allergies, Medications, Medical history Eye movement, Motor response, Verbal Airway, Breathing, Circulation
START triage is used to make a rapid (30-60 sec) assessment during multiple patient scenes when resources are limited. It measures the respirations, cap refill, and the ability of the patient to follow simple commands. The mnemonic 30-2-"CAN DO" is used as a reminder of the criteria you're using to assess the patient. Eye movement, motor response, and verbal are the criteria used for a GCS score, so you can immediately throw that option out.
Of the following conditions, which one is most time sensitive? Testicular torsion Epididymitis Orchitis Blunt testicular trauma
Testicular torsion is twisting of the spermatic cord which brings blood to the scrotum. Hypoperfusion may result in permanent damage or loss of the affected testicle so immediate care with possible surgery is needed. Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) and orchitis (inflammation of the testes) are not nearly as time sensitive. Blunt trauma can be a cause of torsion but does not carry the risk of reduced blood flow in and of itself.
Your patient is a 60-year-old female sitting at her kitchen table and appears lucid. She experienced weakness on the right side of her body and was unable to move her right arm or leg for several minutes. She also had a severe headache and felt nauseated, but states that it has improved. Your patient most likely experienced? Transient ischemic attack Ischemic stroke Hemorrhagic shock Thrombotic internal stroke
The classic signs of a stroke include paralysis and weakness to one side of the body, trouble with speaking, understanding, and a headache. In cases of Transient Ischemic Attack, or TIA, these symptoms usually only exist for 5 minutes, after which the patient seems normal. Because a TIA is caused by debris or a clot that temporarily decreases blood flow to the brain, there are still risks that the patient may experience another TIA or stroke. This patient needs to be transported immediately for further evaluation.
A person with an infectious disease can transmit the disease and infect other people during which stage? Communicable period Incubation period Window phase Latent period
The communicable period is the time during which a patient is infectious and can transmit the disease to other people.
You were called to a urgent care clinic for a pregnant female experiencing contractions. Upon your arrival, you find a 19-year-old female sitting on an exam table. The physician tells you that crowning is not present and the patient thinks she started feeling contractions approximately 6 hours ago. The physician states that contractions are occurring every 10 minutes and last approximately 30 seconds. The patient has had 5 contractions since she has been in the exam room. What is the contraction interval? 10 minutes 5 contractions 6 hours 30 seconds
The contraction interval is the amount of time between each contraction. It is measured by the amount of time that passes between the end of the last contraction and the start of the next contraction
When giving aspirin to a victim with signs and symptoms of a heart attack, you should ensure the victim does not have three conditions. Which of the following is not one of those conditions? Only administer aspirin if you have adult or regular aspirin on hand Make sure the victim has no signs of a stroke Check to make sure the victim has no major bleeding Ask if the person has an allergy to aspirin
The correct dosage of aspirin is 324 mg, achieved with 4 baby aspirin or one regular dose pill. Always ensure the patient has no major bleeding, no signs of a stroke, and no allergies to aspirin
When giving aspirin to a victim with signs and symptoms of a heart attack, you should ensure the victim does not have three conditions. Which of the following is not one of those conditions? Only administer aspirin if you have adult or regular aspirin on hand Make sure the victim has no signs of a stroke Check to make sure the victim has no major bleeding Ask if the person has an allergy to aspirin
The correct dosage of aspirin is 324 mg, achieved with 4 baby aspirin or one regular dose pill. Always ensure the patient has no major bleeding, no signs of a stroke, and no allergies to aspirin.
As you assess your 82-year-old female patient, you note that she is confused and lethargic. Vitals: BP - 88/62, P - 140, SpO2 - 94%, Skin - pale, cool, dry. What type of shock is this patient most likely experiencing? Decompensated Irreversible Hemorrhagic Compensated
The definition of shock is the inability of the body to adequately perfuse (supply blood to) the tissue. Based on this patient's falling BP, tachycardia, and confusion, she is beyond the compensated stage of shock. With irreversible shock, you will see increased hypotension, bradycardia, and eventual unconsciousness as the patient's organs are no longer being supplied with blood.
Which of the following events occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle? Menstruation New egg growth Release of egg from the ovary Implantation of the egg into the uterine wall
The lining of the uterine wall is shed during this phase.
You are treating a victim at a MVC who has sustained multiple traumatic injuries. You have been on scene for 15 minutes, stabilizing and immobilizing your patient. You are in a region which contains a Level I trauma center 50 minutes away and a Level III trauma center 10 minutes away. What is your choice of treatment facilities and why? Level III because it will be able to stabilize and transfer serious patients, if needed Level III because it is capable of handling all types of trauma patients Level I because you may be held liable if you take the patient to a facility of lesser capabilities Level I because it is the highest level and able to handle any trauma patient
The most appropriate hospital in this case would be a Level III trauma center. Trauma patients fall into the golden hour, meaning if the patient reaches definitive care (an OR) within an hour of the injury, they have the highest chance of survival. You know that you have been on scene for 15 minutes, only leaving 45 minutes left in the golden hour. You don't know how long it took you to get there or when the call was placed in regards to your dispatch, which adds time. The Level III will be able to stabilize the patient and, if needed, transfer them to a higher level of care
You are dispatched to 4 calls during your shift. Which one would you not respond to with your lights and sirens on? Possible wrist fracture Vehicle vs. Pedestrian Chest pain Shortness of breath
The possible wrist fracture is not an immediate life threat, therefore you would not need to respond to the call with your lights and sirens.
Which plane separates the body into right and left halves? Sagittal Axial Frontal Transverse
The sagittal plane, also referred to as the median plane, runs vertically through the middle of the body. This imaginary separation splits the body into right and left halves.
The sinoatrial node is also called the? The pacemaker of the heart The electrical conduction system of the heart The left ventricle The bundle branch of the heart
The sinoatrial node generates nerve impulses that allow the heart to fire or contract
You are dispatched to a 56-year-old male with chest pain. He tells you that he's taken 2 nitroglycerin tablets, but hasn't felt any relief from his pain. Vitals: BP - 86/52, P - 62, R- 20, SpO2 - 95%, Skin - pale, cool, diaphoretic. How should you proceed? Transfer the patient to the gurney and transport rapidly Call on-line medical control for the ability to assist in the administration of 1 additional dose of nitroglycerin Administer oxygen and assist the patient with the administration of 1 additional tablet of nitroglycerin Assist the patient with the administration of 1 additional tablet of nitroglycerin
There should be one piece of information in this question that makes it easy to answer... Blood pressure. Remember if the blood pressure is below 90-100 mmHg systolic, you're contraindicated from assisting in the delivery of any additional nitroglycerin.
The most common cause of cardiac arrest in a child is? Respiratory arrest Congenital heart condition Anaphylaxis Airway obstruction
These are all causes of cardiac arrest in children, however, most commonly it is caused by respiratory arrest.
During triage of an MCI, you assess a patient with 2 broken legs who cannot walk. He is spontaneously breathing at 24 times per minute, has a radial pulse, and is able to follow commands. What color do you triage this patient? Yellow Green Red White
This patient has serious injuries, but his condition is not expected to change for the next several hours. Since his respiratory rate is less than 30, he has a radial pulse and is able to follow commands, he does not meet criteria for a red tag and therefore should be tagged Yellow.
You respond to the scene of a motor vehicle accident. Your patient is a 76-year-old male who complains of chest pain after hitting the steering wheel. He is pale and diaphoretic. His pulse is 120, BP 88/59, RR 20. Upon examination, you notice bruising to the chest. Lung sounds are clear on both sides but heart tones are muffled. You also notice his neck veins are distended. What do you suspect is going on with this patient? Cardiac tamponade Hemothorax Tension pneumothorax Pulmonary embolism
This patient is likely experiencing cardiac tamponade. Chest trauma is a common cause of this. He is also showing the classic signs of cardiac tamponade: muffled heart tones, hypotension and JVD
You are called to the scene of a sexual assault near a gas station. When you arrive, you find out that the victim managed to hit her assaulter with a baseball bat before fleeing the scene. Your patient is the assailant, who is pale, diaphoretic and unconscious. How do you proceed with treating this patient? Make your initial assessment, treat C-A-B, and prepare to transport Find and treat the victim of the sexual assault first, and then consider the unconscious patient Make your initial assessment, but take no further actions before police can fully document the injuries Leave the scene immediately and leave the patient with law enforcement
This question is linked to the idea of standard of care. All patient need to be treated quickly and effectively, regardless of how you may view them. The patient is the assailant, but should receive an initial assessment, including evaluating and treating airway, breathing, and circulation, and rapidly transporting to the nearest facility.
You have responded to a bus crash on a major highway in your first due response area. As the first arriving unit, your partner takes command of the incident and assigns you to begin triage. While performing triage, you find the following patients: 37 year-old female who is pulseless and apneic, 14 year-old male with bilateral femur fractures, 40 year-old male who is unconscious, 17 year-old female with an absent radial pulse, 8 year-old male with an ulnar fracture. What patient count would you report to your partner? 1 deceased (black), 2 immediate (red), 1 delayed (yellow), 1 minor (green) 3 immediate (red), 1 delayed (yellow), 1 minor (green) 2 minor (green), 1 delayed (yellow), 2 immediate (red) 4 immediate (red), 1 deceased (black)
Use the START triage acronym RPM (respirations, perfusion, mentation) to triage the patients. 37 year-old female who is pulseless and apneic: DECEASED (black), 14 year-old male with bilateral femur fractures: DELAYED (yellow), 40 year-old male who is unconscious: IMMEDIATE (red), 17 year-old female with an absent radial pulse: IMMEDIATE (red), 8 year-old male with an ulnar fracture: MINOR (green).
You are treating a 68-year-old female with chest pain. The patient says it feels like an "elephant is sitting on her chest" and there is a burning throughout her chest. She cannot locate specifically where the pain is in her chest. What type of pain is the patient experiencing? Visceral Organ Somatic Referred
Visceral pain arises from the viscera (lining of the organs in the chest and abdomen) and will be difficult for the patient to provide a specific location. The pain may be described as dull, pressure, or burning in nature.
While at work, you are alerted to a factory worker who has somehow gotten a powder granular substance in their eyes. Proper care is to? Have the person wash their eyes with a large amount of water for a long duration Use small amounts of water to lightly wash the eyes Do not have the person flush their eyes with water Have the person rub their eyes to try to relieve the pain
When an irritant enters the eye, it is important to flush the eyes for a prolonged amount of time. This large amount of water over a prolonged time will hopefully flush all of the irritant out of the eyes.
How long should you check for a pulse in an unresponsive infant who is not breathing? No more than 10 seconds No more than 8 seconds No more than 5 seconds No more than 2 seconds
You should take no more than 10 seconds to check for a pulse on any patient of any age who is unresponsive and not breathing.
