Chapter 11 quiz

Question 0

When should the EMT use the pulse oximeter?
A) Only if the patient has a history of lung disease
B) Only on patients complaining of shortness of breath
C) Routinely on all patients with a medical or trauma complaint
D) On any and all patients 1 year of age and older

Answer 0

C) Routinely on all patients with a medical or trauma complaint

Question 1

Which one of the following statements concerning assessment of the pulse is correct?
A) “A brachial pulse should be felt first in any patient under 6 years of age.”
B) “The heart rate can be determined by doubling the number of beats counted in 30 seconds.”
C) “To get the most accurate rate, the EMT should place a stethoscope over the pulse site and count the number of beats in 1 minute.”
D) “After much experience, an EMT can estimate the pulse rate by just feeling it for a few seconds.”

Answer 1

B) “The heart rate can be determined by doubling the number of beats counted in 30 seconds.”

Question 2

During the primary assessment of a geriatric patient complaining of shortness of breath and fever, you quickly locate the radial pulse. What should you do next?
A) Determine the rate and quality of the pulse.
B) Assess the patient’s breathing.
C) Obtain a blood pressure.
D) Establish the patient’s level of consciousness.

Answer 2

A) Determine the rate and quality of the pulse.

Question 3

A mother has called 911 because her 2-year-old daughter is fussy and not eating. When assessing the toddler, which one of the following is the best indication of her perfusion status?
A) Skin color and temperature 
B) Auscultation of breath sounds 
C) Heart rate 
D) Palpated blood pressure

Answer 3

A) Skin color and temperature

Question 4

When evaluating a patient’s skin color, the EMT should:
A) examine the skin color of the face and compare it with the color of the arms.
B) observe the nail beds and/or mucous membranes inside the eyelids.
C) look at the skin on the upper chest and feel it for warmth.
D) examine the change in skin color when applying then releasing pressure to the nail beds.

Answer 4

B) observe the nail beds and/or mucous membranes inside the eyelids.

Question 5

When assessing a patient’s pulse, you can locate the right radial pulse, but not the left. Which one of the following is the most likely explanation for this finding?
A) There is a problem with the patient’s veins.
B) The left radial artery may be occluded.
C) The patient is in the early stage of cardiac arrest.
D) The left radial artery is extremely large.

Answer 5

B) The left radial artery may be occluded.

Question 6

The EMT recognizes which one of the following heart rates (beats per minute) as normal for a 24-year-old male?
A) 54 
B) 110 
C) 62 
D) 124

Answer 6

C) 62

Question 7

The EMT understands the primary reason to obtain a medical history using the SAMPLE mnemonic when he states:
A) “It is important to use the SAMPLE mnemonic because the emergency department will need the information.”
B) “The SAMPLE mnemonic helps EMTs to diagnose a patient’s medical problem.”
C) “After performing the primary assessment, the SAMPLE mnemonic helps guide the EMT in further assessment and care.”
D) “The SAMPLE mnemonic is important because it will give the EMT the patient’s exact chief complaint.”

Answer 7

C) “After performing the primary assessment, the SAMPLE mnemonic helps guide the EMT in further assessment and care.”

Question 8

Correctly assessing orthostatic vital signs involves:
A) determining if the patient’s respirations and heart rate are within normal limits.
B) taking the blood pressure and heart rate three times, 2 minutes apart.
C) determining if the patient’s pulse disappears during deep inspiration.
D) taking the blood pressure in the supine, seated, and standing positions.

Answer 8

D) taking the blood pressure in the supine, seated, and standing positions.

Question 9

You are unable to auscultate a blood pressure in a patient’s right arm. Which one of the following will allow you to obtain the most accurate baseline assessment of the patient’s vital signs?
A) Use an automatic blood pressure monitor.
B) Palpate the blood pressure in the right arm.
C) Auscultate the blood pressure in the left arm.
D) Move the blood pressure cuff down to the forearm.

Answer 9

C) Auscultate the blood pressure in the left arm.

Question 10

When obtaining blood pressure on a patient in a standing position, the patient states that he suddenly feels weak and is going to pass out. Your immediate action should be to:
A) determine the blood pressure by palpation.
B) ask the patient if he is having chest pain.
C) place the patient back into bed.
D) hold the patient upright until the blood pressure is obtained.

Answer 10

C) place the patient back into bed.

Question 11

An 86-year-old female has called 911 for rectal bleeding. There is a large amount of dark red blood and clots in the toilet and on the patient’s clothing. The Emergency Medical Responder reports a blood pressure of 84/68 mmHg with a heart rate of 124 beats per minute. Given this information, the EMT should recognize:
A) diastolic hypertension and risk for stroke.
B) normal blood pressure since the patient is alert and oriented.
C) narrowed pulse pressure and possible shock.
D) normal heart rate given the patient’s age.

Answer 11

C) narrowed pulse pressure and possible shock.

Question 12

Which one of the following blood pressures represents diastolic hypertension in an adult patient?
A) 240/88 mmHg 
B) 246/Palpation 
C) 136/92 mmHg 
D) 158/44 mmHg

Answer 12

C) 136/92 mmHg

Question 13

Which one of the following patients should the EMT recognize as tachycardic?
A) 37-year-old male with a complaint of fatigue and a heart rate of 104
B) 24-year-old female with diabetic complications and a heart rate of 54
C) 3-year-old female with vomiting and a heart rate of 116
D) 86-year-old male with chest pain and a heart rate of 96

Answer 13

A) 37-year-old male with a complaint of fatigue and a heart rate of 104

Question 14

You are caring for a 5-year-old male with the complaint of difficulty breathing. Your assessment indicates that the patient is tachypneic with labored breathing. To get more information about the patient's respiratory function, which one of the following findings would you recognize as most important?
A) Nasal congestion and runny nose 
B) Systolic blood pressure of 92 mmHg 
C) Skin that is hot and dry 
D) Retractions between the ribs

Answer 14

D) Retractions between the ribs

Question 15

Which one of the following indicates the correct documentation of a pulse oximetry reading on the prehospital care report?
A) 97% SpO2
B) 97% O2
C) 97% PO 
D) 97% PO2

Answer 15

A) 97% SpO2

Question 16

You notice that your partner routinely only takes one set of vitals when treating and transporting patients. When asked, he states that he only gets baseline vitals since they are most important as they provide information related to the patient’s clinical status at the time of the EMS call. How would you respond?
A) “Comparing several sets of vital signs is the only way you will know if the patient is improving or deteriorating.”
B) “Examining several sets of vital signs can indicate the effectiveness of your treatment.”
C) “You must get at least two sets of vital signs because that is what the national standard calls for.”
D) “You must at least get a pulse rate every 15 minutes since this is the most important vital sign.”

Answer 16

B) “Examining several sets of vital signs can indicate the effectiveness of your treatment.”

Question 17

You are assessing a 49-year-old male complaining of lower back pain. Which one of the following would be pertinent medical information related to the back pain that the EMT will obtain using the SAMPLE mnemonic?
A) Arthritis in the spine and pelvis
B) Heart rate of 48 and cool clammy skin
C) Last tetanus shot five years ago
D) Childhood case of measles

Answer 17

A) Arthritis in the spine and pelvis

Question 18

Where would the EMT palpate for a popliteal pulse?
A) Behind the knee 
B) Upper arm 
C) Top of foot 
D) Posterior ankle

Answer 18

A) Behind the knee

Question 19

You are trying to get a pulse oximeter reading on an 18-month-old child with difficulty breathing. Every time you place the sensor on the finger, he becomes upset and removes it. The EMT’s best course of action would be to:
A) place the sensor on the child’s toe.
B) place the sensor on the other hand.
C) restrain the child until a reading is obtained.
D) attach the sensor to his neck.

Answer 19

A) place the sensor on the child’s toe.

Question 20

For which one of the following conditions would the EMT most likely get an inaccurate pulse oximeter reading despite proper application of the sensor?
A) Increased heart rate 
B) Low blood pressure 
C) Unresponsiveness 
D) Elevated body temperature

Answer 20

B) Low blood pressure

Question 21

A pulse oximetry reading is considered normal when it is:
A) greater than 90 percent. 
B) greater than 97 percent. 
C) greater than 75 percent. 
D) 100 percent.

Answer 21

B) greater than 97 percent.

Question 22

When using a pulse oximeter on an adult patient, the EMT knows that the sensor is most often attached to the patient's:
A) finger. 
B) chest. 
C) ear. 
D) forehead.

Answer 22

A) finger.

Question 23

To test a patient’s capillary refill, the EMT will:
A) examine the inside lining of one or both eyelids.
B) apply pressure and then release that pressure from the arm.
C) apply gentle pressure to the radial pulse and watch color changes to the hand.
D) firmly compress and then release pressure on the nail bed.

Answer 23

D) firmly compress and then release pressure on the nail bed.

Question 24

You have arrived by the side of a cyanotic patient who is responsive only to painful stimuli and exhibiting stridorous respirations. Which one of the following would be most appropriate?
A) Attempt to determine what happened to the patient or any existing medical problems.
B) Obtain a full set of vital signs excluding the patient’s temperature.
C) Provide positive pressure ventilation with supplemental oxygen.
D) Prepare and apply the pulse oximeter before administering oxygen.

Answer 24

C) Provide positive pressure ventilation with supplemental oxygen.

Question 25

A female patient with a history of asthma called 911 with a complaint of shortness of breath. On scene, you assisted her with the administration of her metered dose inhaler containing albuterol. Which one of the following interventions will you use to best determine if the patient is improving or not?
A) Obtain pulse oximetry readings every 3 minutes.
B) Ask the patient if she finds it easier to breathe.
C) Inquire if she feels the need for another dose of albuterol.
D) Re-obtain a SAMPLE history and look for new information.

Answer 25

A) Obtain pulse oximetry readings every 3 minutes.

Question 26

A patient states that he is short of breath, light-headed, and has chest pain that worsens when he takes a deep breath. Assessment reveals an open airway, adequate breathing, and a rapid pulse of 120 beats per minute. His skin is hot to the touch, and he has a blood pressure of 116/84 mmHg. The patient informs you that he was diagnosed with pneumonia three days ago and has not been taking the prescribed antibiotics. Which one of these assessment findings would the EMT best recognize as a sign related to the patient’s chief complaint?
A) Blood pressure of 116/84 mmHg
B) Recent diagnosis of pneumonia
C) Chest pain that worsens with inspiration
D) Complaint of light-headedness

Answer 26

A) Blood pressure of 116/84 mmHg

Question 27

You have assisted the patient in taking one of his nitroglycerin tablets. Five minutes later, you note the blood pressure is 108/74 mmHg. To determine if the nitroglycerin has affected the blood pressure, the EMT should:
A) retake the blood pressure and compare it to a normal BP of 120/80 mmHg.
B) compare to the baseline blood pressure.
C) ask the patient if he feels his blood pressure has changed.
D) take another blood pressure in five minutes.

Answer 27

B) compare to the baseline blood pressure.

Question 28

The EMT is correct when he identifies baseline vital signs as:
A) the first set of vital signs obtained.
B) the most important set of vital signs.
C) any change in two consecutive sets of vital signs.
D) a set of vital signs most close to normal.

Answer 28

A) the first set of vital signs obtained.

Question 29

A female patient who called 911 when she noticed blood in her stool is scared and anxious. Her pulse rate is 124 and her blood pressure is 88/60 mmHg. After you get her vital signs, she nervously asks you if they are normal. Given her anxiety, you should:
A) inform her of the vital signs. 
B) reassure her that she is fine. 
C) tell her they are normal. 
D) change the subject.

Answer 29

A) inform her of the vital signs.

Question 30

Which statement is true regarding vital signs obtained from a patient with nausea and vomiting?
A) If the vital signs are within normal limits, it is safe to let the patient refuse transport.
B) The vital signs will allow the EMT to diagnose the cause of the nausea and vomiting.
C) The vital signs will help to determine the relative stability or instability of the patient.
D) The patient’s complaint will be significant only if accompanied by abnormal vital signs.

Answer 30

C) The vital signs will help to determine the relative stability or instability of the patient.

Question 31

Which patient description contains only vital signs?
A) Chief complaint of dizziness, BP 110/76 mmHg, breath sounds clear and equal
B) Heart rate 88, respiratory rate 14, blood glucose level 98 mg/dL
C) Chief complaint of dizziness, skin cool and clammy, respiratory rate 16
D) Skin warm and dry, heart rate 74, pupils equal and reactive

Answer 31

D) Skin warm and dry, heart rate 74, pupils equal and reactive

Question 32

Emergency Medical Responders inform you that a 27-year-old male with altered mental status has an open airway and is breathing 9 times every 30 seconds. His pulse rate is 40 beats per minute, and he has bruises to his chest. Based on this information, the EMT should recognize the:
A) heart rate as irregular. 
B) respiratory rate as normal. 
C) heart as beating adequately. 
D) blood pressure as normal.

Answer 32

B) respiratory rate as normal.

Question 33

You are assessing a 61-year-old male who is confused. During the primary assessment, you cannot locate a radial pulse. Your immediate action should be to:
A) start CPR. 
B) check for a carotid pulse. 
C) apply the AED. 
D) call for ALS assistance.

Answer 33

B) check for a carotid pulse.

Question 34

Which piece of equipment would the EMT need to obtain a patient's vital signs?
A) Stethoscope 
B) Oxygen 
C) Glucometer 
D) Automated defibrillator

Answer 34

A) Stethoscope

Question 35

The EMT is correctly calculating a patient’s respiratory rate when he or she:
A) obtains a pulse oximetry reading and divides it by 3.
B) asks the patient to describe how he feels when he breathes.
C) assesses the patient for any sign of respiratory difficulty.
D) counts the number of breaths for 30 seconds and multiplies by 2.

Answer 35

D) counts the number of breaths for 30 seconds and multiplies by 2.

Question 36

Which of the following signs related to breathing would be most concerning to the EMT?
A) Respiratory rate of 18, complaint of weakness
B) Respiratory rate of 22, chest expansion of 1 inch
C) Respiratory rate of 20, use of accessory muscles
D) Respiratory rate of 10, speaking without difficulty

Answer 36

C) Respiratory rate of 20, use of accessory muscles

Question 37

Which statement made by your partner indicates that he understands assessment of a patient’s breathing?
A) “As long as the patient is breathing over 20 times a minute, he is getting enough oxygen in his body.”
B) “If the respiratory rate is normal, the patient is breathing adequately and getting enough oxygen.”
C) “To determine if a patient is adequately breathing, the EMT must get a full set of vital signs.”
D) “A rate less than 8 may allow adequate breathing, but requires further evaluation and assessment.”

Answer 37

D) “A rate less than 8 may allow adequate breathing, but requires further evaluation and assessment.”

Question 38

A family has called you for a 41-year-old male they cannot wake up. They state he has been threatening to kill himself and believe that he may have intentionally overdosed on his pain medications. As you enter the patient’s bedroom, you observe him supine on the floor with his eyes closed. As he breathes, you hear snoring respirations. As a knowledgeable EMT, you recognize which one of the following?
A) He will require immediate suctioning.
B) His tongue is partially blocking the airway.
C) His respiratory rate must be less than 10 per minute.
D) He is sleeping and has not overdosed.

Answer 38

B) His tongue is partially blocking the airway.

Question 39

Which one of the pulses listed below is palpated in the groin area?
A) Carotid 
B) Femoral 
C) Pedal 
D) Inguinal

Answer 39

B) Femoral

Question 40

A young female patient has been stung by a bee and states that her "throat is closing up." She states that she is allergic to bee stings and the last time this happened, she had to have a "tube put into my windpipe." She is struggling to breathe and can only speak a few words at a time. Knowing that allergic reactions can cause swelling in the pharynx and at the level of the larynx, which one of the following respiratory sounds would indicate that the patient indeed has swelling in this area?
A) Wheezing 
B) Gurgling 
C) Stridor 
D) Snoring

Answer 40

C) Stridor

Question 41

The EMT is correctly using a noninvasive blood pressure monitor when she:
A) confirms each reading on the device by palpating a pressure in the opposite arm.
B) alternates arms for each blood pressure that is obtained with the device.
C) auscultates a blood pressure before applying and activating the device.
D) places the cuff of the noninvasive BP monitor on the patient’s forearm.

Answer 41

C) auscultates a blood pressure before applying and activating the device.

Question 42

An EMT is correctly assessing a patient’s radial pulse when he:
A) uses his thumb to feel for the pulse on the patient’s lower arm.
B) simultaneously checks for a heart rate on both sides of the neck.
C) uses his fingertips to feel for a pulse at the patient’s wrist.
D) uses the palm of his hand to feel the pulse on the upper arm.

Answer 42

C) uses his fingertips to feel for a pulse at the patient’s wrist.

Question 43

A patient with chest pain informs you that the pain hurts more when he takes a deep breath. The EMT is using the active listening technique clarification when he responds by saying:
A) “I see. Can you describe what the pain feels like?”
B) “Hmmm. That really seems to hurt a lot.”
C) “I understand it hurts, please go on.”
D) “So what you are saying is that it hurts more when you breathe?”

Answer 43

A) “I see. Can you describe what the pain feels like?”

Question 44

When applying the pulse oximeter sensor to a patient’s finger, he asks you what it is for. Your response would be:
A) “It measures the amount of oxygen being carried by your blood cells.”
B) “It tells us how well your heart is pumping blood.”
C) “It allows us to monitor your blood pressure.”
D) “It provides us with the most accurate measure of your heart rate.”

Answer 44

A) “It measures the amount of oxygen being carried by your blood cells.”

Question 45

You are transporting a depressed patient who states that she is thinking of killing herself by taking a “whole bunch of pills.” After giving this information, the patient has refused to speak and has been silent ever since. Which one of the following statements would be most appropriate at this time?
A) “I need you to talk to me. I cannot help you if you refuse to talk to me.”
B) “I understand if you do not want to talk. I will be sitting here if you need anything.”
C) “I don’t understand why you won’t talk. You called 911 for help, didn’t you?”
D) “Has the cat got your tongue? If you talk to me I can help you.”

Answer 45

B) “I understand if you do not want to talk. I will be sitting here if you need anything.”

Question 46

Which one of the following is necessary to obtain an accurate pulse oximetry measurement?
A) Elevate the patient’s hand above his heart.
B) Remove nail polish from the patient’s fingernail.
C) Secure the probe to the patient’s finger with tape.
D) Administer oxygen before assessing the oxygen saturation.

Answer 46

B) Remove nail polish from the patient’s fingernail.

Question 47

The EMT is appropriately using the SAMPLE mnemonic when he asks which one of the following questions?
A) “Have you thought about stopping smoking?”
B) “Why did you call for the ambulance?”
C) “When did you eat last?”
D) “Who is your doctor?”

Answer 47

C) “When did you eat last?”

Question 48

A patient who appears to be intoxicated has fallen and is complaining of pain to his right arm. He is loud and using profane language. Which one of the following should be your initial approach to the patient?
A) “Stop yelling or I will have to strap you to the stretcher.”
B) “Let me put an ice pack on your wrist. It will help it feel better.”
C) “I cannot help you if you keep yelling like that!”
D) “If you do not quiet down, I will call the police and they will arrest you.”

Answer 48

B) “Let me put an ice pack on your wrist. It will help it feel better.”

Question 49

Which one of the following statements would the EMT regard as a symptom?
A) “He has a history of high blood pressure.”
B) “There is a bruise to his left elbow.”
C) “He slipped and fell down the stairs.”
D) “The patient is sharp and is a 10 out of 10.”

Answer 49

D) “The patient is sharp and is a 10 out of 10.”

Question 50

You cannot obtain a reading on the pulse oximeter after applying the sensor to the patient’s finger. Which one of the following would be the most likely reason for this?
A) The patient’s pulse is faster than 100 beats per minute.
B) The patient is hypertensive.
C) The patient’s hands are cold.
D) The patient’s oxygen saturation is below 90%.

Answer 50

C) The patient’s hands are cold.

Question 51

Which one of the following illustrates a question that would be asked when obtaining a medical history, using the SAMPLE mnemonic, for a female patient who is crying and complaining of dizziness?
A) “What were you doing when the dizziness started?”
B) “Who is your doctor and when was your last office visit?”
C) “You seem upset. Do you want to talk about it?”
D) “Why exactly did you call the ambulance today?”

Answer 51

A) “What were you doing when the dizziness started?”

Question 52

An EMT has an accurate understanding of the diastolic blood pressure when she tells you that the diastolic pressure:
A) is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is not contracting.
B) can be easily obtained by palpating the blood pressure.
C) can be estimated as one-third of the systolic blood pressure.
D) should always be rounded to the nearest 10.

Answer 52

A) is the pressure in the arteries when the heart is not contracting.

Question 53

The fire department has requested your assistance at a residence where the family’s carbon monoxide (CO) detector has been going off. Of three patients, you first assess a 28-year-old female who states she has a sinus headache but otherwise feels fine. Her vital signs are: pulse 90, respirations 16, blood pressure 118/60 mmHg, and SpO2 100%. Given these assessment findings, you should immediately:
A) administer high-concentration oxygen.
B) inform her that the CO detector has malfunctioned.
C) recheck the oxygen saturation on the patient’s opposite hand.
D) call for advanced life support assistance.

Answer 53

A) administer high-concentration oxygen.

Question 54

Which one of the following pieces of information would be obtained when getting a history using the SAMPLE mnemonic?
A) Pulse 144, respiration 16, BP 132/88
B) Reason for calling for an ambulance
C) No life threats to the airway, breathing, or circulation
D) Sensation of dizziness prior to falling

Answer 54

D) Sensation of dizziness prior to falling

Question 55

A blood pressure is reported as 116/68 mmHg. Which one of the following is true?
A) The systolic blood pressure is 116 mmHg.
B) The diastolic blood pressure is 116 mmHg.
C) The systolic pressure is determined by subtracting 68 from 116.
D) The top number reflects the diastolic blood pressure.

Answer 55

A) The systolic blood pressure is 116 mmHg.

Question 56

When obtaining a blood pressure, the EMT listens for a pulse over what blood vessel?
A) Brachial artery 
B) Radial artery 
C) Carotid vessels 
D) Antecubital vein

Answer 56

A) Brachial artery

Question 57

Which one of the following questions would the EMT ask when using the OPQRST mnemonic?
A) "Have you ever had any surgeries?"
B) "Does the pain feel dull or sharp?"
C) "Do you have any medical conditions?"
D) "Did you take any medications today?"

Answer 57

B) “Does the pain feel dull or sharp?”

Question 58

When assessing a patient who does not speak the same language as you or your partner, the best approach in the immediate care of the patient is to:
A) request that a family member act as an interpreter.
B) try to find a neighbor who speaks the patient’s language.
C) contact medical direction to get physician input.
D) transport the patient to a hospital with interpreters for her language.

Answer 58

A) request that a family member act as an interpreter.

Question 59

Which one of the following descriptions would be obtained when asking about the "A" component of the SAMPLE history?
A) Abdomen soft 
B) Allergy to penicillin 
C) Airway open 
D) History of asthma

Answer 59

B) Allergy to penicillin

Question 60

The EMT is correctly palpating a central pulse when he palpates which of the following?
A) Femoral pulse 
B) Radial pulse 
C) Posterior tibial pulse 
D) Brachial pulse

Answer 60

A) Femoral pulse

Question 61

When obtaining a medical history using the SAMPLE mnemonic, which one of the following statements relates to the "P" component?
A) "The pulse is 116 beats per minute."
B) "The pain is rated at 8/10."
C) "There is a history of pancreatitis."
D) "The physician is Dr. Coleman."

Answer 61

C) “There is a history of pancreatitis.”

Question 62

When using the OPQRST mnemonic, the EMT is getting information as it applies to the “P” category when she asks:
A) “What time did the symptoms start?”
B) “Do you feel more short of breath when you are lying down?”
C) “Does the chest pain spread to your back?”
D) “Can you rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10?”

Answer 62

B) “Do you feel more short of breath when you are lying down?”

Question 63

To assess a patient's blood pressure, the EMT will need a:
A) sphygmomanometer. 
B) pair of gloves and stethoscope. 
C) pulse oximeter and stethoscope. 
D) pulse oximeter.

Answer 63

A) sphygmomanometer.

Question 64

As you enter the scene of a medical emergency, the Emergency Medical Responder informs you that the patient is not breathing and has pupils that are fixed and dilated. Based on this description, which one of the following are you expecting to see when you reach the patient’s side?
A) Both pupils are large and change shape to light.
B) Neither pupil will react when light is directed into the eyes.
C) The patient must wear corrective lenses.
D) The patient has a past medical history of blindness.

Answer 64

B) Neither pupil will react when light is directed into the eyes.

Question 65

An EMT has an accurate understanding of the systolic blood pressure when he tells you that the systolic blood pressure is:
A) caused by constriction of the arteries.
B) produced when the heart contracts.
C) the pressure in the veins.
D) represented by the bottom number.

Answer 65

B) produced when the heart contracts.

Question 66

Which one of the following is an indication to palpate the blood pressure?
A) Normal pulse rate 
B) Non-life-threatening condition 
C) Tachycardic pulse rate 
D) Noisy environment

Answer 66

D) Noisy environment

Question 67

The EMT is correct when he makes which one of the following statements about assessment of the pupils?
A) “Constricted pupils are less of a concern than are dilated pupils.”
B) “Dilated pupils are less of a concern than pupils that are constricted.”
C) “If a patient’s pupils are dilated but react to light, the pupillary exam is considered normal.”
D) “Some people naturally have unequal pupils, but both should react to light.”

Answer 67

D) “Some people naturally have unequal pupils, but both should react to light.”

Question 68

When getting a blood pressure on a patient, the radial pulse disappears when the gauge reads 130 mmHg. When deflating the cuff, the EMT hears a pulse at 118 mmHg. The pulse disappears at 76 mmHg. Which one of the following is true?
A) The systolic blood pressure is 76 mmHg.
B) The diastolic blood pressure is 130 mmHg.
C) The diastolic blood pressure is 118 mmHg.
D) The systolic blood pressure is 118 mmHg.

Answer 68

D) The systolic blood pressure is 118 mmHg.

Question 69

An EMT student asks you if it matters if the blood pressure cuff seems too small for a patient, even though a reading can still be obtained. You should respond:
A) “As long as the reading is obtained, it should be accurate.”
B) “As long as the radial pulse remains intact, the cuff size is irrelevant.”
C) “Using a cuff that is too small can cause damage to the blood vessels.”
D) “Cuffs that are too small provide inaccurately high readings.”

Answer 69

D) “Cuffs that are too small provide inaccurately high readings.”

Question 70

Your partner states that he wants to palpate the blood pressure. What equipment would you hand him?
A) Blood pressure cuff 
B) Stethoscope and pulse oximeter 
C) Stethoscope 
D) Blood pressure cuff and stethoscope

Answer 70

A) Blood pressure cuff

Question 71

You have placed the blood pressure cuff on the arm of a patient who is short of breath. What is your next step?
A) Inflate the cuff to 300 mmHg, and then have the cuff inflated for 30 seconds prior to deflation.
B) Inflate the cuff to three times the patient’s age and listen for a heartbeat.
C) Inflate the cuff to a reading of 300 mmHg, and then deflate the cuff slowly until you hear a pulse.
D) Inflate to a reading of 70 mmHg, check for a radial pulse, and continue inflation until the pulse is no longer felt.

Answer 71

D) Inflate to a reading of 70 mmHg, check for a radial pulse, and continue inflation until the pulse is no longer felt.

Question 72

Your partner reports that a patient’s blood pressure is 156/78 mmHg. From this reading, you realize:
A) The systolic blood pressure is 78 mmHg.
B) The diastolic blood pressure is 78 mmHg.
C) The constant pressure in the veins is 156 mmHg.
D) The pulse pressure is 224 mmHg.

Answer 72

B) The diastolic blood pressure is 78 mmHg.

Question 73

A 69-year-old man is complaining of weakness to the left arm and leg. He also states that he is nauseated and has a headache. The patient’s past medical history includes stroke and diabetes. In relation to this information, which one of the following is true?
A) The dizziness is a sign indicating the severity of the chief complaint.
B) The history of diabetes is a sign related to the chief complaint.
C) The headache is a symptom related to the chief complaint.
D) The history of diabetes is a contributing symptom of the chief complaint.

Answer 73

C) The headache is a symptom related to the chief complaint.

Question 74

Which one of the statements listed below indicates an appropriate understanding of palpating a blood pressure?
A) “A palpated blood pressure is typically falsely lower than a blood pressure obtained by auscultation.”
B) “It is best to determine a palpated blood pressure using a stethoscope and pulse oximeter.”
C) “A palpated blood pressure is recorded when the brachial pulse returns as the BP cuff is deflated.”
D) “Palpated blood pressures are the technique of choice when the patient has a cardiac complaint.”

Answer 74

A) “A palpated blood pressure is typically falsely lower than a blood pressure obtained by auscultation.”

Question 75

In the prehospital care report, the EMT should recognize that a blood pressure has been palpated when she sees:
A) 178 / P. 
B) P / 118. 
C) 118/178 (palpated). 
D) Palp: 178/118 mmHg.

Answer 75

A) 178 / P.

Question 76

You observe your partner correctly obtaining a patient’s blood pressure when he:
A) inflates the cuff maximally prior to slowly deflating and listening for a pulse.
B) places the stethoscope under the cuff and deflates it.
C) stops inflation and starts deflation as soon as the radial pulse disappears.
D) deflates the cuff 2 mmHg per second while listening with a stethoscope.

Answer 76

D) deflates the cuff 2 mmHg per second while listening with a stethoscope.

Question 77

The purpose of the OPQRST mnemonic is to guide the EMT in which one of the following?
A) Determining the stability of vital signs
B) Establishing any allergies to medications
C) Exploring the patient’s chief complaint
D) Getting a past medical history

Answer 77

C) Exploring the patient’s chief complaint

Question 78

What pulse site is commonly used when the EMT elects to palpate a blood pressure?
A) Radial 
B) Brachial 
C) Carotid 
D) Pedal

Answer 78

A) Radial

Question 79

You have been dispatched to a residence for a 14-year-old female complaining of abdominal pain. As you enter the living room, you see the conscious patient lying on a couch with her father and an Emergency Medical Responder at her side. Which one of the following actions would be most appropriate to perform first?
A) Determine the chief complaint. 
B) Introduce yourself and your partner. 
C) Ask her father to leave the room. 
D) Get permission to treat the patient.

Answer 79

B) Introduce yourself and your partner.

Question 80

You have applied the pulse oximeter to a 73-year-old male complaining of weakness and heart palpitations. Your partner reports that the patient’s breath sounds are clear and equal with a respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute and skin that is warm but pale in color. He continues to state the following vital signs: pulse 92, blood pressure 168/70 mmHg, and SpO2 90% on room air. Given this information, which one of the following instructions would be most appropriate?
A) “Let’s recheck the SpO2 in 2 minutes for any change.”
B) “The SpO2 is probably normal for him since he is very pale.”
C) “Let’s give him high-concentration oxygen through a nonrebreather.”
D) “The reading must be wrong since he displays no cyanosis.”

Answer 80

C) “Let’s give him high-concentration oxygen through a nonrebreather.”

Question 81

Which one of the following is an example of an open-ended question?
A) “Why did you call 911?”
B) “Did you take your medications today?”
C) “Are you dizzy?”
D) “Does your chest hurt?”

Answer 81

A) “Why did you call 911?”

Question 82

Which one of the following indicates that the EMT has correctly positioned the blood pressure cuff on the patient’s arm?
A) The cuff is centered over the top of the radial artery.
B) The cuff is placed over the antecubital space and elbow.
C) The cuff covers one-third of the patient’s upper arm.
D) The cuff is on the same level as the patient’s heart.

Answer 82

D) The cuff is on the same level as the patient’s heart.

Question 83

Your partner is having a difficult time determining what a normal and abnormal blood pressure is for a child. Which one of the following statements will help him most?
A) “Any systolic blood pressure of less than 100 mmHg in a child is an emergency.”
B) “It is helpful to ask the parent or caregiver what is normal for the child and compare your reading to that.”
C) “A normal systolic pressure can be estimated by doubling the child’s age and adding it to 80.”
D) “Since pediatric emergencies are less common than adult emergencies. It is best to call medical direction and ask what is normal.”

Answer 83

C) “A normal systolic pressure can be estimated by doubling the child’s age and adding it to 80.”

Question 84

When assessing a patient’s pupils, the EMT should:
A) instruct the patient to blink several times and observe the size of the pupils.
B) cover one eye and shine a light in the other, watching for changes to the size of the pupil.
C) shine a light in one eye and watch for the pupil to dilate.
D) determine the size of the pupil and then look for a change in pupillary size as you shine a light in the eye.

Answer 84

D) determine the size of the pupil and then look for a change in pupillary size as you shine a light in the eye.

Question 85

Assessment of a patient who is unresponsive reveals pupils that are both large at 8 millimeters and do not change size in response to light. The EMT would best document this finding as:
A) bilateral dilation of the pupils.
B) nonreactive pupils of decreased size.
C) midsize pupils that are reactive to light.
D) constricted pupils nonreactive to light.

Answer 85

A) bilateral dilation of the pupils.

Question 86

Which one of the following indicates a normal pupillary exam?
A) The patient reflexively closes his eyes to light.
B) One pupil dilates and the other constricts to light.
C) Both pupils constrict when light is directed into the eye.
D) The pupils are equal and do not change shape to light.

Answer 86

C) Both pupils constrict when light is directed into the eye.

Question 87

A 41-year-old male patient reacts to painful stimuli by moaning. You shine a light at his right pupil. Which one of the following reactions would be normal?
A) Closure of both eyelids 
B) Constriction of the left pupil 
C) Dilation of the left pupil 
D) Dilation of the right pupil

Answer 87

B) Constriction of the left pupil

Question 88

You are assessing a patient who is in bright sunlight after collapsing in the hot sun at a picnic. If you cannot immediately move the patient out of the sun, assessment of the pupils will be made more accurate by:
A) shading the patient’s eyes.
B) hydrating the eyes with saline drops.
C) retracting the eyelid.
D) using a blue-tinged light.

Answer 88

A) shading the patient’s eyes.

Question 89

You are attempting to get a history from a 56-year-old female who is short of breath. When you ask questions, the daughter continually answers for the patient. To best handle this situation, you should:
A) contact medical direction for advisement.
B) explain to the daughter it is important for the patient to answer.
C) move the patient to the ambulance for the rest of the assessment.
D) have the Emergency Medical Responders remove the daughter.

Answer 89

B) explain to the daughter it is important for the patient to answer.

Question 90

Friends called 911 for a 37-year-old female who intentionally overdosed on a narcotic drug. Which one of the following eye findings would reinforce that the patient did indeed take a narcotic?
A) Bloodshot eyes with large pupils 
B) Nonreactive pupils that are unequal 
C) Pupils that constrict to light 
D) Pupils that are constricted

Answer 90

D) Pupils that are constricted

Question 91

You have been dispatched to a residence for a female with unknown injuries. At the patient’s side, you quickly become aware that the 43-year-old female was assaulted by her husband. The husband comes into the room and states, “Don’t you touch her, or I will take care of you, too!” Which one of the following should be your immediate action?
A) Control any active bleeding, and then leave the house.
B) Stay with the patient and contact law enforcement.
C) Leave the house, taking the patient with you, if possible.
D) Restrain the husband so that you can care for the patient.

Answer 91

C) Leave the house, taking the patient with you, if possible.

Question 92

A 43-year-old female has accidentally taken too much of her antidepressant medication and is now confused. Emergency Medical Responders are on scene and providing the patient with high-concentration oxygen. As you arrive at the patient’s side, your first action should be to:
A) get a pulse oximeter reading.
B) obtain vital signs.
C) determine the type of medication taken.
D) perform a primary assessment.

Answer 92

D) perform a primary assessment.

Question 93

When using the SAMPLE mnemonic, which of the following statements made by the patient would be categorized under the letter “M”?
A) “My doctor’s name is Dr. Hansen.”
B) “I was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer.”
C) “I have never had a surgical procedure.”
D) “I take Zocor, but I am not sure why.”

Answer 93

D) “I take Zocor, but I am not sure why.”

Question 94

You have been called to a bar for a patient who was involved in an altercation and is complaining of abdominal pain. Law enforcement is present, the patient has been handcuffed, and he is sitting on the sidewalk. He has an odor of alcohol on his breath, his speech is slurred, and he is angrily yelling at the police officers. Which one of the following would be most appropriate when talking to the patient?
A) Stand above the patient to establish authority.
B) Maintain eye contact to establish a rapport.
C) Stand and communicate with the patient from four feet away.
D) Place your hand on his shoulder to keep him subdued.

Answer 94

B) Maintain eye contact to establish a rapport.

Question 95

An alert and oriented 87-year-old female has fallen and suffered a 3-cm laceration to the back of her head. According to the patient, her walker became caught in the carpet, causing her to trip. When obtaining a medical history, which one of the following sources should be asked first?
A) EMRs on scene 
B) Patient 
C) Patient's primary care doctor 
D) Family members

Answer 95

B) Patient