EMT Flashcards
Snoring respirations are most rapidly managed by:
A. suctioning the oropharynx
B. initiating assisted ventilations
C. correctly positioning the head
D. inserting an oropharyngeal airway
C
Which of the following patients is in the most need of a rapid trauma assessment?
A. an awake and alert 19 year old man with a small caliber gunshot wound
B. A conscious 25 year old woman who fell 12’ from a roof and landed on her side
C. A 43 year old woman with a unilaterally swollen, painful deformity of the femur
D. A 60 year old man who fell from a standing position and has an abrasion on his cheek
A
Which of the following bones is affected with a swollen, painful deformity to the lateral bone of the left forearm?
A. Ulna
B. Radius
C. Clavicle
D. Humerus
B
During your assessment of a 34 year old man with a gunshot wound to the chest you note that his skin is pale. This finding is most likely caused by:
A. a critically low blood pressure
B. increased blood flow to the skin
C. decreased blood flow to the skin
D. peripheral dilation of the vasculature
C
An 80 year old woman has pain in the right upper quadrant of her abdomen and a yellowish tinge to her skin. You should suspect dysfunction of the
A. liver
B. spleen
C. pancreas
D. gallbladder
A
Which of the following situations is an example of abandonment?
A. A paramedic gives a verbal report to an ER nurse
B. An AEMT assumes patient care from an EMT
C. An EMT transfers patient care to a Paramedic
D. A first responder assumes patient care from an EMT
D
Which artery should you palpate when assessing for pulse in an unresponsive 6 month old?
A. Radial
B. Carotid
C. Femoral
D. Brachial
D
During the initial assessment of a trauma patient, you note massive facial injuries, weak radial pulses, and clammy skin. What should be your most immediate concern?
A. potential obstruction of the airway
B. internal bleeding and severe shock
C. applying 100% supplemental oxygen
D. providing rapid transport to a trauma center
A
You are called to treat a male patient who overdosed on heroin and is unconscious with shallow breathing and cyanosis to the face. The patient suddenly begins to vomit. What should you do first?
A. suction the oropharynx
B. turn the patient onto his side
C. insert an oropharangeal airway
D. assist ventilations with 100% oxygen
B
The scene size up includes all of the following components except
A. determining scene safety
B. applying personal protective gear
C. assessing the need for assistance
D. evaluating the mechanism of injury
B
In which of the following patients would an oropharyngeal airway be indicated?
A. any patient suspected of having hypoxia
B. a semiconscious patient with an intact gag reflex
C. A semiconscious patient that overdosed on propoxyphene
D. an unconscious patient with fluid drainage from the ears
D
Upon arriving at the scene of a multiple vehicle crash, you can see that at least two patients have been ejected from their vehicles. What should you do next?
A. begin triage
B. treat the most critical patient first
C. gather all of the patients together
D. call for at least one more ambulance
D
A 75 year old man has generalized weakness and chest pain. He has a bottle of perscribed nitroglycerin and states that he has not taken any of his medication. After initiating oxygen therapy, you should next
A. apply the AED and prepare the patient for immediate transport
B. perform a detailed physical examination to locate any other problems
C. contact medical control for permission to assist the patient with his nitroglycerin
D. complete a focused physical examination, including obtaining baseline vitals
D
Which of the following organs is not a part of the endocrine system?
A. thyroid
B. pituitary
C. pancreas
D. gallbladder
D
Which of the following conditions or injuries should be managed first?
A. fluid drainage from the ears
B. bleeding within the oral cavity
C. a large open abdominal wound
D. bilateral fractures of the femurs
B
You arrive at a residence where you find a man lying unconscious in his front yard. There were no witnesses to the event that caused the unconsciousness. In assessing this patient, you must assume that:
A. he has sustained an injury
B. he is having a heart attack
C. he is having a diabetic reaction
D. he is having a heat-related emergency
A
When is the best time to perform a detailed physical examination?
A. while en route to the hospital
B. after all life threats have been ruled out
C. immediately after taking baseline vital signs
D. following the initial assessment of the patient.
A
Which of the following conditions would most likely cause flushed skin?
A. shock
B. hypoxia
C. exposure to heat
D low blood pressure
C
During the rapid trauma assessment of a patient with multiple injuries, you expose the chest and find an open wound with blood bubbling from it. What would you do next?
A. apply 100% supplemental oxygen
B. provide rapid transport to the hospital
C. prevent air from entering the wound
D. place a porous dressing over the wound
C
You are called to a local park for a 7-year old boy with respiratory distress. During your assessment, you find that the patient is wheezing and has wide spread hives and facial edema. What should you suspect has occurred?
A. heat emergency
B. allergic reaction
C. acute asthma attack
D. exposure to a poisonous plant
B
A common side effect of nitroglycerin is:
A. nausea
B. headache
C. hypertension
D. chest discomfort
B
As you assess a 56 year old man, you note that he is pulseless and apneic. As your partner gets the AED from the ambulance, you should:
A. obtain a medical history from his wife
B. place the patient in the recovery position
C. perform CPR until the AED is ready to use
D. conduct a detailed examination of the patient
C
Perscribed inhalers, such as albuterol (Ventolin), relieve respiratory distress by:
A. constricting the bronchioles in the lungs
B. contracting the smaller airways in the lungs
C. relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchioles
D. dilating the large mainstem bronchi of the airway
C
In a patient with cardiac compromise, you would be least likely to encounter:
A. anxiety
B. dyspnea
C. headache
D. chest pain
A
When monitoring a patient with a head injury, the most reliable indicator of his or her condition is the
A. pupillary reaction
B. level of consciousness
C. systolic blood pressure
D. rate and depth of breathing
B
A 56 year old man with a history of cardiac problems reports pain in the upper midabdominal area. This region of the abdomen is called:
A. peritoneum
B. epigastrium
C. mediastinum
D. retroperitoneum
B
Which of the following mechanisms cause respiratory and circulatory collapse during anaphylactic shock?
A. bronchodilation and vasoconstriction
B. bronchoconstriction and vasodilation
C. bronchodilation and vasodilation
D. bronchoconstriction and vasoconstriction
B
In the patient with diabetes, hypoglycemia typically presents with
A. dry skin and a slow onset
B. dry skin and a rapid onset
C. clammy skin and a slow onset
D. clammy skin and a rapid onset
D
Which of the following signs would least suggest a diabetic emergency?
A. bradycardia
B. tachycardia
C. combativeness
D. a fruity breath odor
A
Which of the following patients would be at most risk for suicide?
A. a woman who quit her job for one that pays more
B. a man who is in the midst of losing a significant relationship
C. a man who is planning his wife’s 27th birthday party
D. an EMT who just got a lot of media attention for saving a drowning child
B
A middle aged woman has acute shortness of breath and respirations of 30 breaths/min. How should you first manage this patient?
A. assess respiratory quality
B. begin assisting ventilations
C. apply supplemental oxygen
D. perform a detailed examination
A
To obtain the most reliable assessment of a patient’s tidal volume, you should
A. assess for retractions
B. listen for airway noises
C. count the respiratory rate
D. look at the rise of the chest
D
As you are performing CPR on an elderly man, his wife presents you with a “do not resuscitate” or “DNR” order. Your most appropriate course of action is to
A. ignore the document and continue CPR
B. comply with the document and stop CPR
C. continue CPR until medical control is notified
D. withhold CPR until medical control validates the order
C
A 5 year old boy complains of pain to the right lower quadrant of his abdomen. Correct assessment of this child’s abdomen includes:
A. avoiding palpation of the abdomen
B. palpating the left upper quadrant first
C. auscultating bowel sounds for 2 minutes
D. palpating the right lower quadrant first
B
In most states; the EMT is required to report which of the following occurances?
A. animal bite
B. drug overdose
C. injury to a minor
D. motor vehicle crash
A
A set of regulations and ethical considerations that define the extent or limits of an EMT’s job is called
A. duty to act
B. confidentiality
C. scope of practice
D. the medical practices act
C
A 9 year old girl was struck by a car while she was crossing the street and is displaying signs of shock. During your assessment, you note a large contusion over the left upper quadrant of her abdomen. Which of the following organs has most likely been injured?
A. liver
B. kidney
C. spleen
D. pancreas
C
The AED should not be used in patients who
A. are between 1 and 8 years of age
B. experienced a witnessed cardiac arrest
C. are apneic and have a weak carotid pulse
D. have a nitroglycerin patch applied to the skin
C
As you step out of the ambulance at the scene of a nighttime motor vehicle crash on the highway, your immediate concern should be:
A. oncoming traffic
B. whether the car will catch fire
C. placing safety flares by the ambulance
D. quick assessment of the patients in the car
A
Which of the following actions should be carried out during the initial assessment of an unconscious patient?
A. assessing the skin
B. palpating the cranium
C. auscultating the lungs
D. obtaining a blood pressure
A
You arrive at the scene shortly after a 55 year old man has collapsed. Two bystanders are performing CPR. The man’s wife states that he had cardiac bypass surgery approximately 6 months earlier. There are no signs of trauma. Your first action in the management of this patient should be to:
A. attach an AED and analyze the cardiac rhythm
B. check the effectiveness of the CPR in progress
C. insert an oropharyngeal airway and continue CPR
D. stop CPR so you can assess pulse and breathing
D
You arrive at the scene shortly after a 55 year old man has collapsed. Two bystanders are performing CPR. The man’s wife states that he had cardiac bypass surgery approximately 6 months earlier. There are no signs of trauma. Cardiac arrest in the adult population is most often the result of
A. an acute stroke
B. respiratory failure
C. cardiac arrythmias
D. myocardial infarction
C
You arrive at the scene shortly after a 55 year old man has collapsed. Two bystanders are performing CPR. The man’s wife states that he had cardiac bypass surgery approximately 6 months earlier. There are no signs of trauma. After you attach the AED and analyze the patients heart rhythm, the machine states “shock advised”. What cardiac rhythm is the patient most likely in?
A. asystole
B. ventricular fibrillation
C. ventricular tachycardia
D. pulseless electrical activity
B
Immediately upon delivery of a newborn’s head you should:
A. dry the face
B. cover the eyes
C. suction the nose
D. suction the mouth
D
You assess a newborn with cyanosis to the chest and face and a heart beat of 90 beats/min. what should you do next?
A. resuction the mouth
B. briskly dry the infant
C. begin chest compressions
D. begin artificial ventilations
D
An EMT’s failure to obtain consent to treat a patient could result in allegations of:
A. battery
B. negligence
C. abandonment
D. breach of duty
A
Which of the following describes the most appropriate method of performing chest compressions on an adult patient in cardiac arrest?
A. compress the chest 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches, allow full recoil of the chest after each compression, minimize interruptions in chest compressions
B. Allow full recoil of the chest after each compression, compress the chest to a depth of 2 inches, deliver compressions at a rate of at least 80/min
C. Do not interrupt chest compressions for any reason, compress the chest to a depth of 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches, allow partial recoil of the chest after each compression
D. Minimize interruptions in chest compressions, provide 70% compression time and 30% relaxation time, deliver compressions at a rate of 100/min
A
Prevention of cardiac arrest in infants and small children should focus primarily on
A. keeping the child warm
B. avoiding upsetting the child
C. providing immediate transport
D. providing airway management
D
You are managing a conscious patient who you believe is having an acute ischemic stroke. After administering oxygen, your next priority should include:
A. providing prompt transport for possible fibrinolytic therapy
B. determining whether the patient is perscribed nitroglycerin
C. closely monitoring the blood pressure
D. completing a detailed physical examination before providing transport
A
Which of the following patients with diabetes should receive oral glucose?
A. a confused patient who has cool clammy skin
B. a confused patient who is suspicious of the EMT’s
C. A semiconscious patient with pale skin
D. an unconscious patient who took too much insulin
A
During a bar fight, a 22 year old man was stabbed in the chest with a large knife. The patient is pulseless and apneic, and the knife is still impaled in the center of his chest. Wound management should include
A. stabilizing the knife, starting CPR, and providing rapid transport
B. stabilizing the knife, applying an occlusive dressing and providing rapid transport
C. removing the knife, starting CPR, and providing transport
D. removing the knife, applying an occlusive dressing, and providing rapid transport
C
In which of the following patients would nitroglycerin be contraindicated?
A. a 41 year old male with crushing chest pressure, a blood pressure of 160/90 mmHg, and severe nausea
B. a 53 year old male with chest discomfort, diaphoresis, a blood pressure of 146/66 mmHg, and regular use of Cialis
C. a 58 year old male with chest pain radiating to the left arm, a blood pressure of 130/64 mm Hg, and perscribed Tegretol
D. a 66 year old female with chest pressure that started 6 hours ago, lightheadedness, and a blood pressure of 110/58 mmHg
B
Firefighters have rescued a man from his burning house. He is conscious and in considerable respiratory distress. He has a brassy cough and singed nasal hairs. The most immediate threat to this patient is
A. hypothermia
B. severe burns
C. severe infection
D. closure of the airway
D
You respond to a call for a shooting at a local bar. You arrive at the scene and find a young man sitting against the wall, screaming in pain with bright red blood spurting near his groin. What should you do first?
A. ensure an open airway
B. apply pressure to the wound
C. tie off the patient’s limb with a tourniquet
D. transport the patient immediately
B
Patients with closed head injuries often have pupillary changes and
A. paralysis
B. paresthesia
C. hypertension
D. tachycardia
C
When assessing a patient with a reduction in tidal volume, you would expect the respirations to be
A. deep
B. labored
C. shallow
D. dyspneic
C
Prior to applying an nonrebreather mask on a patient with difficulty breathing you should
A. set the flow rate to no more than 10 L/min
B. prefill the reservoir bag to ensure the delivery of 100% oxygen
C. insert a nasopharyngeal airway to maintain airway patency
D. perform a complete physical examination to determine the degree of hypoxia
B
A 60 year old woman is experiencing severe respiratory distress. When you ask her a question, she can only say two words at a time. You should manage this patient by
A. inserting a nasopharyngeal airway
B. providing positive pressure ventilations
C. applying a nasal cannula set at 2-6 L/m
D. applying a nonrebreather mask set to 15 L/m
B
The most effective method for determining whether you are providing adequate artificial ventilation is
A. assessing the chest for adequate rise
B. assessing the pulse for an improving heart rate
C. checking the pupils for increased reactivity
D. checking the skin for improvement of cyanosis
A
You are administering oxygen to a woman with asthma who took two puffs of her perscribed inhaler without relief prior to your arrival. your next action should be to
A. contact medical control for further advice
B. administer one more puff from her inhaler
C. provide immediate transport
D. confirm that her inhaler is infact perscribed to her
A
Unconsciousness, shallow breathing, and constricted pupils are most indicative of what type of drug overdose?
A. narcotic
B. marijuana
C. barbiturate
D. amphetamine
A
When dealing with an emotionally disturbed patient, you should be concerned with
A. providing safe transport
B. whether the patient could harm you
C. obtaining a complete medical history
D. gathering all of the patient’s medications
B
A 6 year old male, who weighs 40 pounds, ingested a bottle of aspirin approximately 20 minutes ago. Medical control orders you to administer activated charcoal in a dose of 1g/kg. How much activated charcoal will you administer?
A. 12g
B. 14g
C. 18g
D. 24g
C
Upon delivery of a baby’s head, you see that the umbilical cord is wrapped around it’s neck. You should manage the situation initially by:
A. clamping and cutting the umbilical cord
B. gently pulling on the cord to facilitate removal
C. trying to remove the cord from around the neck
D. keeping the cord moist and providing transport
C
You arrive at the scene shortly after a 3 year old female experienced a seizure. The child, who is being held by her mother, is conscious and crying. The mother tells you that her daughter has been ill recently and has a temperature of 102.5 degrees F. What is the most appropriate treatment for this child?
A. oxygen via pediatric nonrebreather mask, place the child in a tub of cold water to lower her body temperature, and transport
B. oxygen via the blow by technique, remove clothing and cool the child with towels soaked in tepid water, and transport
C. oxygen via pediatric nonrebreather mask, avoid any measures to lower the child’s body temperature, and transport at once
D. oxygen via the blow by technique, transport at once and request a paramedic rendezvous so that an anticonvulsant drug can be given
B
You receive a call to a local daycare center for a 3 year old boy who is not breathing. When you arrive and assess the child, you find him to be in cardiopulmonary arrest. You initiate CPR and request a back up ambulance. As you are performing one rescuer CPR, your partner prepares the AED. The appropriate compression to ventilation ratio for this child is:
A. 3:1
B. 60:2
C. 15:2
D. 30:2
D
You receive a call to a local daycare center for a 3 year old boy who is not breathing. When you arrive and assess the child, you find him to be in cardiopulmonary arrest. You initiate CPR and request a back up ambulance. After attaching the AED, you push the analyze button and receive a “shock advised” message. After delivering the shock, you should
A. assess for a carotid pulse
B. immediately perform CPR
C. reanalyze the cardiac rhythm
D. open the airway and ventilate
B
You receive a call to a local daycare center for a 3 year old boy who is not breathing. When you arrive and assess the child, you find him to be in cardiopulmonary arrest. You initiate CPR and request a back up ambulance. A paramedic unit arrives at the scene to provide assistance. After one of the paramedics intubates the child, you should deliver ventilations at a rate of
A. 6-8 breaths per minute
B. 8-10 breaths per minute
C. 10-12 breaths per minute
D. 12-20 breaths per minute
B
You receive a call to a local daycare center for a 3 year old boy who is not breathing. When you arrive and assess the child, you find him to be in cardiopulmonary arrest. You initiate CPR and request a back up ambulance. In infants and children, the most detrimental effect of gastric distention is
A. increased ease of ventilations
B. decreased ventilatory volume
C. acute rupture of the diaphragm
D. less effective chest compressions
B
Which of the following parameters would be most reliable as an indicator of perfusion in a 1 year old child?
A. heart rate
B. capillary refill
C. blood pressure
D. respiratory rate
B
While managing a patient with acute shortness of breath, you prepare and apply a nonrebreathing mask set at 12 L/min. The patient pulls the mask away from his face, stating that it is smothering him. You should next
A. increase the oxygen flow and reapply the mask
B.securely tape the oxygen mask to the patient’s face
C. reassure the patient and apply a nasal cannula instead
D. inform the patient that refusing oxygen may result in his death
C
Signs of inadequate breathing in an unconscious patient include
A. fast heart rate
B. warm, moist skin
C. equal breath sounds
D. rapid respiratory rate
D
Initial attempts at providing artificial ventilation should be accomplished using
A. the one person bag valve mask technique
B. the two person bag valve mask technique
C. a pocket mask with supplemental oxygen
D. a flow restricted oxygen powered ventilation device
C
The most effective means of preventing the spread of disease is
A. effective handwashing
B. up to date immunizations
C. wearing gloves with all patients
D. using an alcohol based hand sanatizer after applying your gloves
A
You have completed your prehospital care report and left a copy at the hospital when you realize that you forgot to document a pertinent finding on the front of the report. The most appropriate action would be to
A. attach an addenum to the original run report
B. write the information on the original run report
C. complete a new run report and add the information
D. take no action and report the event to your supervisor
A
An awake and alert 92 year old woman with chest pain is refusing to EMS treatment and transport to the hospital. Her family insists that you transport her. This situation is most appropriately managed by
A. transporting the patient as the family wishes
B. advising the patient of the risks of refusing care
C. obtaining a signed refusal from a family member
D. transporting the patient as you explain your actions
B
At the scene of a mass casualty incident, you notice a bystander that is clearly emotionally upset. An appropriate action to take would be to
A. tell the bystander to leave the scene at once
B. have the bystander assist you with patient care
C. notify the police and have the bystander removed
D. assign the bystander a simple, non patient care task.
D
Which of the following situations would necessitate treatment using implied consent?
A. a 16 year old pregnant girl with an isolated extremity injury
B. an 18 year old man who is now alert after receiving oral glucose
C. a 25 year old man who is restless and has severe chest pain and diaphoresis
D. a 65 year old man who is semiconscious and suspected of having a severe stroke
D
Which of the following patients would most likely present with atypical signs and symptoms of acute myocardial infarction
A. 72 year old female with diabetes and hypertension
B. 64 year old male with renal disease and depression
C. 59 year old male with alcoholism and angina pectoris
D. 50 year old female with pedal edema and diabetes
C
While assessing a patient with chest pain, you note that the patient’s pulse is irregular. This pattern most likely indicates
A. acute myocardial infarction or angina pectoris
B. a dysfunction in the left side of the patient’s heart
C. high blood pressure that is increasing cardiac workload
D. abnormalities in the heart’s electrical conduction system
D
While a man was using a chainsaw to trim branches from a tree, it slipped and caused a large laceration to his left forearm. Bright red blood is spurting from the wound. The patient is conscious, alert, and talking. You should first
A. open the patient’s airway
B. control the active bleeding
C. apply supplemental oxygen
D. thoroughly cleanse the wound
B
A 40 year old patient sustained full thickness burns to the entire head, anterior chest, and both anterior upper extremeties. using the adult rule of nines, what percentage of the patient’s body surface area has been burned?
A. 18%
B. 27%
C. 36%
D. 45%
B
When assessing a patient with chest pain, which of the following questions would you ask to assess the ‘R’ in OPQRST?
A. Did the pain begin suddenly or gradually?
B. What were you doing when the pain began?
C. Is there anything that makes the pain worse?
D. Is the pain in one place or does it move around?
D
Which of the following describes the most correct method for inserting a nasopharangeal airway?
A. insert the device with the bevel facing the septum
B. insert the device with the bevel facing the lateral aspect of the nose
C. rotate the device as you insert it into the right nostril
D. apply firm, gentle pressure if you meet resistance during insertion
A
Which vital sign is the best indicator of cardiac output during the initial assessment?
A. pulse rate and quality
B. systolic blood pressure
C. quality of the respirations
D. condition and color of the skin
A
After assisting a patient with their epinephrine auto injector, you should dispose of the device by
A. giving it to the patient to have it refilled
B. placing the device in a red biohazard bag
C. placing the device in a puncture proof container
D. replacing the cover and putting it in a trash can
C
Which of the following assessment findings would most suggest a systemic reaction following ingestion of a poison?
A. nausea and vomiting
B. burns around the mouth
C. tachycardia and hypotension
D. difficulty swallowing and burning in the mouth
C
You are at the scene where a man panicked while swimming in a small lake. As you attempt to rescue this patient, you should first
A. throw a rope to the patient
B. row a small raft to the patient
C. swim to the patient to rescue him
D. attempt to grab the patient with a stick
A
After removing the patient from the water, your assessment reveals that the patient is breathing inadequately and is continuously regurgitating large quantities of water. You should manage this patient by
A. alternating suctioning with artificial ventilations
B. performing abdominal thrusts to remove the water
C. placing the patient on his side and press in on the abdomen
D. initiating artificial ventilations after the patient stops regurgitating
A
Your first action in managing a patient with an altered mental status should be to
A. give the patient oral glucose
B. administer supplemental oxygen
C. make sure that the patient is breathing adequately
D. try to determine the cause of the altered mental status
C
Management of a patient with severe abdominal pain includes
A. administering 100% oxygen
B. auscultating for bowel sounds
C. giving the patient sips of water
D. placing the patient in a supine position
A
Immediately following a generalized motor seizure, most patients are
A. apneic
B. confused
C. hyperactive
D. awake and alert
B
As your are providing initial ventilations to a patient with apnea using a bag valve mask device, you note minimal rise of the chest. You should next
A. initiate the mouth to mask technique
B. increase the volume of the ventilations
C. switch to a smaller mask for the BVM device
D. ensure that a reservoir is attached to the BVM device
B
As you begin your assessment of an unresponsive man who fell approx. 20 feet from a roof, you should first
A. gently shake the patient to confirm unresponsiveness
B. gently tilt the patient’s head back to assess for breathing
C. assess the rate, depth, and regularity of the patient’s breathing
D. manually stabilize the patient’s head and perform a jaw-thrust maneuver
D
A 56 year old man has labored, shallow breathing at a rate of 28 breaths/min. He is conscious, but extremely restless. Airway management should consist of
A. nasal cannula
B. simple face mask
C. a nonrebreathing mask
D. positive pressure ventilation
D
Indications that artificial ventilations in an apneic patient are ineffective include
A. normal heart rate
B. improvement of skin color
C. asymmetrical rise of chest
D. ventilations given at 12 breaths/min
C
The AED analyzes your pulseless and apneic patient’s cardiac rhythm and advises that a shock is indicated. You should
A. deliver the shock and resume CPR
B. ensure that nobody is touching the patient
C. perform CPR for 2 minutes and then deliver the shock
D. push the analyze button to confirm that the shock is indicated
B
The most appropriate management of a patient who has sustained widespread full thickness burns following an explosion should consist of applying
A. oxygen; dry, sterile dressings; warmth; and providing rapid transport
B. oxygen; dry, sterile dressings; burn ointment; and providing rapid transport
C. oxygen; moist, sterile dressings; warmth; and providing rapid transport
D. oxygen; moist, sterile dressings; burn ointment; and providing rapid transport
A
To ensure delivery of the highest concentration of oxygen to your patient using a nonrebreathing mask, you should
A. set the flow rate to at least 12 L/min
B. securely fasten the mask to the patient’s face
C. make sure the reservoir bag is pre inflated
D. cover the one way valves on the oxygen mask
C
You arrive at the scene where a 49 year old woman is found semiconscious on the floor of her living room. The patient’s husband tells you that they were watching TV when his condition suddenly developed. No trauma was involved. The patient moans occasionally and has slight cyanosis to her lips. After performing a head tilt chin lift maneuver on this patient, you should next
A. assess her respirations
B. determine the need for oxygen
C. insert an oropharyngeal airway
D. insert a nasopharyngeal airway
D
You arrive at the scene where a 49 year old woman is found semiconscious on the floor of her living room. The patient’s husband tells you that they were watching TV when his condition suddenly developed. No trauma was involved. The patient moans occasionally and has slight cyanosis to her lips. The patient’s respirations are at a rate of 26 breaths/min and shallow. The most appropriate management includes
A. nasal cannula set to 6 L/min
B. assisted ventilations with 100% oxygen
C. a simple face mask set at 10-12 L/min
D. a nonrebreathing mask set at 15 L/min
B
You arrive at the scene where a 49 year old woman is found semiconscious on the floor of her living room. The patient’s husband tells you that they were watching TV when his condition suddenly developed. No trauma was involved. The patient moans occasionally and has slight cyanosis to her lips. Shallow respirations will result in
A. decreased tidal volume
B. increased tidal volume
C. increased oxygen intake
D. increased carbon dioxide removal
A
Skin will become cyanotic with
A. an increase in the amount of venous oxygen
B. an increase in the amount of arterial oxygen
C. a decrease in the amount of arterial oxygen
D. a decrease in the amount of circulating red blood cells
C
You are dispatched to the scene of a motorcycle crash in which two patients were injured. Upon arrival, you find that one patient, a 19 year old woman, is conscious and alert and is being tended to by a police officer for minor scrapes and cuts. The second patient is a 20 year old male who is found face down and thrown 25’ away from the motorcycle. He states that he cannot feel or move his legs. What is the most appropriate first action to take regarding patient care?
A. apply an extrication collar
B. stabilize his head manually
C. evaluate the patency of his airway.
D. roll him to a supine position
B
You are dispatched to the scene of a motorcycle crash in which a male passenger was tossed from the bike and found face down. After you have given him high concentration oxygen and finished your primary assessment, what should you do next?
A. obtain baseline vital signs
B. perform a rapid trauma assessment
C. conduct a detailed physical examination
D. immobilize the patient with a vest style extrication device
B
You are dispatched to the scene of a motorcycle crash in which two patients were injured. Your first patient, who was thrown from the vehicle, was already prepared for transport and loaded into the ambulance. The second patient, who was being treated for minor abrasions by a police officer, is refusing transport. What should you next do?
A. ask the police officer to obtain a signed refusal form from the patient as you proceed to the hospital with the first patient
B. ask the police officer to administer a breathalyzer test to determine if the patient has been drinking
C. advise the patient that she should be transported to the hospital because of the seriousness of the crash
D. obtain a signed refusal from the patient and ask the police officer to transport her to the hospital
C
As you transport a patient with a probable head/spinal injury, you begin a detailed physical exam. During said exam, you notice that the patient’s respiratory rate has increased. You should
A. immediately notify the receiving facility
B. count the number of repirations/minute
C. assess his oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter
D. repeat the initial assessment and treat as needed
D
The most reliable indicator of injury to the spinal vertebrae is
A. lack of pain at the site of the injury
B. palpable pain at the site of the injury
C. decreased movement on one side of the body
D. decreased grip strength in the upper extremeties
B
Following an apparent febrile seizure, a 4 year old boy is alert and crying. His skin is warm and moist. The most appropriate management of this child includes
A. rapidly cooling the child in cold water
B. allowing the parents to transport the child
C. offering oxygen and providing transport
D. keeping the child warm and providing transport
C
You should suspect potential abuse of a 4 year old child when you encounter
A. bruises to the anterior tibial area
B. curious siblings who are watching you
C. purple and yellow bruises to the thighs
D. clinging to the parent during your assessment
C
A 30 year old woman has severe lower abdominal pain and light vaginal bleeding. She tells you that her last menstrual period was 2 months ago. On the basis of these findings, you should suspect
A. normal pregnancy
B. an ectopic pregnancy
C. UTI
D. a ruptured ovarian cyst
B
Management of an 18 year old woman with severe vaginal bleeding includes all of the following except
A. high concentration oxygen
B. elevation of the lower extremeties
C. placing sterile dressings into the vagina
D. covering the vagina with a trauma dressing
C
A sudden onset of respiratory difficulty in a 5 year old child with no fever is most likely the result of
A. infection of the lower airways
B. inflammation of the upper airway
C. a progressive upper airway infection
D. obstruction of the airway by a foreign body
D
The most important initial steps of assessing and managing a newborn include
A. suctioning the airway and obtaining a heart rate
B. clearing the airway and keeping the infant warm
C. keeping the infant warm and counting respirations
D. drying and warming the infant and obtaining an APGAR score
B
Which position is most appropriate for a mother in labor with a prolapsed umbilical cord?
A. left lateral recumbent
B. left side with legs elevated
C. supine with hips elevated
D. supine with legs elevated
C
When is it most appropriate to clamp and cut the umbilical cord?
A. as soon as the cord stops pulsating
B. after the placenta is completely delivered
C. before the newborn has taken it’s first breath
D. immediately following the delivery of the newborn
A
Which of the following statements best describes a mass casualty incident?
A. more than 5 patients are involved
B. at least half the patients require immediate care
C. the number of patients overwhelms your resources
D. more than 3 victims are involved
C
In addition to ensuring your own safety, your primary responsibility when functioning at the scene of a violent crime is to
A. preserve any potential evidence
B. appropriately manage the patient
C. notify medical control prior to initiating care
D. obtain police permission before providing patient care
B
The initial treatment of choice for ventricular fibrillation of short duration, such as witnessed cardiac arrest, is
A. 100% oxygen delivery
B. prompt defibrillation
C. CPR for 2 minutes
D. cardiac drug therapy
B
While managing a patient in cardiac arrest, you turn on the AED and attach the pads to the patient. When you push the analyze button, the machine signals “low battery” and then ceases to function. The patient subsequently dies. Which of the following statements regarding this case is most correct?
A. you and your partner may be held liable for negligence.
B. the crew that preceded you may be held liable for negligence
C. the manufacturer of the AED may be held liable for negligence
D. most errors associated with the AED involve equipment failure
A
Following the delivery of a newborn, you note that the mother has a moderate amount of vaginal bleeding. The mother is conscious and alert and her vital signs are stable. The most appropriate management of the mother includes
A. massaging the uterus if signs of shock develop
B. administering oxygen and massaging the uterus
C. placing a sanitary pad in the vagina and administering oxygen
D. treating her for shock and providing immediate transport
B
You are responding to a call for a 2 year old child who fell from a second story window. With the mechanism of injury and the age of the patient in mind, you should suspect that the primary injury occurred to the child’s
A. head
B. chest
C. abdomen
D. lower extremities
A
At the peak of the inspiratory phase, the alveoli in the lungs contain
A. high quantities of carbon dioxide
B. minimal levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide
C. equal levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide
D. more oxygen than carbon dioxide
D
Pulmonary surfactant serves which of the following functions?
A. it carries fresh oxygen from the lungs to the left side of the heart
B. it dilates the bronchioles in the lungs and enhances the flow of air
C. it lubricates the alveolar walls and allows them to expand and recoil
D. it facilitates the transport of oxygen poor blood from the right ventricle to the lungs
D
You receive a call to a restaurant where a 34 year old man is experiencing shortness of breath. When you arrive you immediately note that the man has urticaria on his face and arms. He is in obvious respiratory distress, but is awake and alert. Suspecting an allergic reaction, your first action should be to
A. ask the patient if he has an epinephrine injector
B. remove the patient’s shirt to inspect his chest for urticaria
C. obtain a set of baseline vitals and attempt to obtain a SAMPLE history
D. place a nonrebreathing mask set at 15 L/min on the patient
D
Epinephrine possesses which of the following effects when it is used to treat anaphylaxis?
A. as a vasodilator, it increases the blood pressure
B. as a vasoconstrictor, it lowers the blood pressure
C. as a bronchodilator, it facilitates adequate breathing
D. as a bronchoconstrictor, it inhibits the release of chemicals that cause the reaction
C
A patient in anaphylactic shock states that he does not have his own epinephrine injector on him, but his wife has her own injector prescribed for bee stings. You should next
A. provide transport and consider an ALS rendezvous
B. assist the patient with the wife’s prescribed epinephrine
C. obtain consent from medical control to give the wife’s epinephrine to the patient
D. assist the patient with one half the usual dose of the wife’s epinephrine
A
An elderly man is found unconscious in his kitchen. The patient’s wife tells you that her husband has diabetes and that he took his insulin, but did not eat anything. You should suspect
A. ketoacidosis
B. diabetic coma
C. hypoglycemia
D. hyperglycemia
C
Which of the following statements regarding insulin is most correct?
A. it stimulates the liver to produce glycogen
B. it promotes the entry of glucose from the cell into the bloodstream
C. it facilitates the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into the cell
D. it causes the pancreas to produce glucose based on the body’s demand
C
Which of the following natures of illness is most consistent with a patient with low blood glucose level who is acting bizarre and breathing shallowly?
A. cardiac compromise
B. altered mental status
C. behavioral emergency
D. respiratory emergency
B
A 42 year old man was ejected from his car after it struck a bridge pillar at a high rate of speed. You find him lying approximately 50 feet from the car. After manually stabilizing his head, your next action should be to
A. assess the quality of his breathing
B. grasp the angles of his jaw and lift
C. administer high concentration oxygen
D. determine the patient’s level of consciousness
B
Which of the following actions is the most important when immobilizing a patient with a suspected spinal injury
A. immobilize the patient using a vest style device
B. secure the patient’s head prior to immobilizing the torso
C. select and apply the appropriate size of extrication collar
D. assess for range of motion by asking the patient to move the head
C
During a soccer game, an 18 year old woman injured her knee. You note that the knee is in the flexed position and is obviously deformed. Your first action should be to
A. assess her distal circulation
B. straighten the knee to facilitate immobilization
C. manually stabilize the leg above and below the knee
D. immobilize the knee in the position in which it was found
C
You have applied a pressure dressing and additional dressings to a large laceration with severe arterial bleeding. The bandages are quickly blood soaked.
A. elevate the extremity and apply a proximal arterial tourniquet
B. apply pressure to the pulse point that is most distal to the injury
C. place additional dressings on the wound until the bleeding stops
D. remove the bandages and apply pressure to the site of the bleeding
D
Which of the following assessment findings would least suggest cardiac compromise
A. tachycardia
B. an irregular pulse
C. palpable pain to the chest
D. nausea and epigastric pain
C
Management of an unconscious, breathing patient with significant cardiac history would include all of the following except
A. analyzing the heart rhythm with an AED
B. providing ventilatory support as needed
C. requesting the presence of an ALS ambulance
D. obtaining a SAMPLE history from the patient’s spousek
A
The wall that separates the left and right sides of the heart is the
A. carina
B. septum
C. pericardium
D. mediastinum
B
Prior to administering nitroglycerin to a patient with chest pain, you must
A. complete a detailed physical examination of the patient
B. contact medical control and obtain proper authorization
C. make sure that the systolic blood pressure is at least 120 mmHg
D. make sure that the medication is prescribed to the patient or a family member
B
After the delivery of defibrillation with the AED, the patient has return of a pulse. You should next
A. provide rapid transport to the hospital
B. reanalyze the rhythm for confirmation
C. assess the airway and ventilatory status
D. remove the AED and apply 100% oxygen
C
Which of the following actions would most likely cause a sudden drop in a patient’s blood glucose level?
A. mild exertion after eating a meal
B. eating a meal after taking insulin
C. taking too much prescribed insulin
D. forgetting to take prescribed insulin
C
Prior to your arrival at the scene, a near-drowning victim was removed from the water. You should manage the patient’s airway appropriately while considering the possibility of
A. spinal injury
B. hyperthermia
C. internal bleeding
D. airway obstruction
A
A soft tissue injury that results in a flap of torn skin is referred to as a(n)
A. incision
B. avulsion
C. abrasion
D. laceration
B
Following blunt injury to the anterior trunk, a patient is coughing up bright red blood. You should be most suspicious of
A. intra-abdominal bleeding
B. GI bleeding
C. bleeding within the lungs
D. severe myocardial damage
C
The position of comfort for a patient with nontraumatic chest pain is
A. semisitting
B. lateral recumbant
C. on the side with the head elevated
D. supine with the legs elevated slightly
A
Which of the following structures is the primary pacemaker, which sets the normal rate for the heart?
A. Bundle of His
B. purkinje fibers
C. sinoatrial node
D. atrioventricular node
C
The middle, muscular layer of the heart is called the
A. epicardium
B. pericardium
C. myocardium
D. endocardium
C
The safest ambulance driver is one who
A. is physically fit
B. has a positive attitude
C. drives with due regard
D. drives with lights and sirens
C
You are called to treat a 25 year old man who is alert and having difficulty breathing. After making contact with your patient, he extends his arm out to allow you to take his blood pressure. This is an example of
A. actual consent
B. informed consent
C. implied consent
D. formal consent
A
You are providing care to a male patient at the scene of a shooting. The police are at the scene collecting evidence. Your actions should include
A. limiting your care to the initial assessment
B. beginning care when the police are done collecting evidence from the scene
C. beginning care immediately as you would with any other patient
D. providing care to the patient while manipulating the scene minimally
D
Which of the following statements regarding the use of an escort vehicle en route to an emergency call is true?
A. an escort vehicle will allow you to arrive to the scene quicker
B. to avoid getting separated from the escort vehicle, you should closely follow it
C. an escort vehicle should be used only if you are unfamiliar with the patient’s location
D. with an escort vehicle, the risk of an accident at an intersection is reduced significantly
C
You arrive at the scene of a fall where you encounter a male patient who fell approximately 30 feet and landed on his head. He is unconscious with an open head injury and exposed brain matter. Upon identifying the patient as an organ donor, you should
A. request authorization from medical control to not initiate care
B. manage the patient aggressively and provide rapid transport
C. recognize the patient’s injuries disqualify him as an organ donor
D. provide supportive care because the patient likely will not survive
B
You are giving a presentation to a group of laypeople on the importance of calling EMS immediately for cardiac arrest patients. What point should you emphasize the most?
A. laypeople are incapable of giving CPR
B. rapid transport significantly reduces patient mortality rates
C. CPR and defibrillation are key factors in patient survival
D. cardiac drug therapy is the most important EMS treatment
C
As an EMT, your primary responsibility is to
A. provide competent patient care
B. ensure the safety of your partner
C. keep yourself as safe as possible
D. transport all patients to the hospital
C
You arrive at the scene of a traffic accident in which multiple vehicles are involved. You see at lease two patients who appear to be unconscious. Your first action should be to
A. begin triaging the patients
B. begin immediate patient care
C. notify medical control for advice
D. request an additional ambulance
D
When providing care to multiple patients at the scene of a mass-casualty incident, your goal should remain focused on
A. transporting patients to the hospital
B. immobilizing all patients at the scene
C. initiating CPR for those in cardiac arrest
D. keeping all bystanders at a safe distance
A
Immediately upon leaving the scene with a patient, you should
A. contact medical control
B. notify the receiving facility
C. advise dispatch of your status
D. ask the patient if their problem is serious enough to warrant going to the hospital
C
When you arrive at a mass-casualty incident at which other ambulances have already arrived, you should
A. repeat the triage process
B. report to the incident commander
C. initiate care for the most critically injured patients
D. obtain information from the fire service commander
B
During the triage process, which of the following injuries or conditions would classify a patient as a high priority?
A. pulselessness and apnea
B. unilateral femur fracture and tachypnea
C. partial thickness burns with no respiratory difficulty
D. a large avulsion to the arm and an altered mental status
D
The role of a triage officer at a mass-casualty incident should be assumed by
A. most knowledgable EMS provider at the scene
B. EMS provider with the most years of experience
C. first EMS provider who is willing to perform the task
D. EMS medical director via telephone communication
A
The information that would be of least pertinence when educating the public on injury prevention is
A. how to provide rescue breathing
B. the proper usage of child safety seats
C. building a childproof fence around a pool
D. teaching children to wear bicycle helmets
A
You are called to a residence for a woman in cardiac arrest. As you are initiating CPR, the patient’s husband approaches you with an unsigned document that states “do not resuscitate”. Your most appropriate action in this case should be to
A. stop all resuscitative efforts in accordance with the document
B. stop CPR until the document can be validated by a physician
C. continue CPR until you have contacted Medical Control for guidance
D. contact medical control prior to beginning any resuscitation measures
C
According to the United States Department of Transportations EMT National Standard Curriculum, minimum staffing for a BLS ambulance includes
A. an EMT who functions as the driver
B. at least one EMT in the patient compartment
C. at least two EMTs in the patient compartment
D. a minimum of two EMT’s in the ambulance
B
The ultimate goal of any EMS quality improvement program should be to
A. deliver a consistently high standard of care to all patients who are encountered
B. make sure that all personnel receive an adequate number of continuing education credits
C. provide EMS protocols to all EMTs and hold them accountable when protocols are not adhered to
D. provide recognition to all EMTs who have demonstrated consistency in providing competent patient care
A
You are caring for a 6 year old child with a painful deformity to the left forearm. As you communicate with the parents of this child, you should
A. ask them repeatedly how the child was injured
B. use appropriate medical terminology at all times
C. make sure that they remain aware of what you are doing
D. tell them that the child will be transported to the hospital
C
Following a call in which a 6 week old infant in cardiac arrest did not survive, your partner is exhibiting significant anxiety and irritability. How can you most effectively help them?
A. allow her to voice her feelings to you
B. tell her that she needs psychiatric help
C. tell her to go home and get 12 hours of sleep
D. report her behavior to the medical director
A
When is it most appropriate to complete your prehospital care report for a critically ill patient?
A. during the initial assessment phase
B. during the ongoing assessment phase
C. as soon as all patient care activities are completed
D. after the ambulance has been restocked at the station
C
Which of the following scene size up findings is least suggestive of an unsafe environment?
A. a large man standing in his yard awaiting your arrival
B. liquid draining from a car that struck a telephone pole
C. screaming and yelling coming from inside a residence
D. the sound of breaking glass as you approach a residence
A
Proper body mechanics when lifting and moving a patient include
A. maintaining a slight curvature of your back
B. using the muscles of your lower back to lift
C. keeping the weight as close to you as possible
D. twisting at the waist when moving a patient around a corner
C
The immobilization device most appropriate to use for a patient with multiple injuries and unstable vital signs is a
A. scoop immobilization device
B. vest style immobilization device
C. short spine board immobilization device
D. long spine board immobilization device
D
Medical control has ordered you to administer one tube of oral glucose to your patient suspected of having hypoglycemia. Immediately after receiving this order, you should
A. document the order on the prehospital care report
B. administer the medication and reassess the patient
C. ask medical control to repeat the order word for word
D. repeat the order back to medical control word for word
D
While caring for a critically injured patient, you remove blood soaked clothing in order to manage injuries. You should dispose of the clothing by
A. leaving it all at the scene
B. leaving it at the hospital
C. placing it in a biohazard bag
D. placing it in the ambulance trashcan
C
Which of the following statements regarding the head tilt chin lift maneuver is most correct?
A. it can only be used in conjunction with an oropharyngeal airway
B. it can only be used temporarily and must be replaced by an airway adjunct
C. it should be used on all unresponsive patients that you encounter
D. it is the technique of choice for patients with potential spinal injury
B
In which of the following situations should the jaw thrust maneuver be used?
A. in any patient who is in cardiac arrest
B. in a patient who is breathing calmly at a rate of 12 breaths per minute
C. in a patient who is in need of frequent suctioning
D. when the mechanism of injury is unclear
D
An elderly man is found lying unresponsive next to his bed. The patients’s wife did not witness the event that caused the unconsciousness. You should first
A. assess the patient’s respirations
B. apply 100% supplemental oxygen
C. tilt the head back and lift up the chin
D. grasp the angles of the lower jaw and lift
D
A patient has severe facial injuries, inadequate breathing, and copious amounts of secretions coming from the mouth. How should this situation be managed?
A. alternate suctioning for 15 seconds and ventilations for 2 minutes
B. provide artificial ventilations and suction for 30 seconds as needed
C. turn the patient to the side and provide oral suctioning continuously
D. insert an oropharyngeal airway and provide suction until the secretions clear
A
When ventilating an apneic adult patient with a bag valve mask device you must make sure that
A. an airway adjunct has been inserted
B. you are positioned alongside the patient
C. ventilations occur at a rate of 20 breaths/min
D. the pop off valve on the BVM device remains open
A
Which of the following happens during inhalation
A. the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm both contract
B. the intercostal muscles relax and the diaphragm contracts
C. the intercostal muscles contract and the diaphragm relaxes
D. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles both relax
A
Which of the following processes occurs during cellular/capillary gas exchange ?
A. the cells give up oxygen to the capillaries
B. the cells receive carbon dioxide from the capillaries
C. the capillaries give up oxygen to the cells
D. the capillaries give up carbon dioxide to the cells
C
What is the preferred method for initially providing artificial ventilations to a patient with apnea?
A. flow restricted, oxygen powered ventilation device
B. mouth to mask technique with supplemental oxygen
C. one person bag valve mask technique with 100% oxygen
D. two person bag valve mask technique with 100% supplemental oxygen
B
A reduced tidal volume would most likely occur from
A. the flaring of the nostrils
B. accessory muscle use
C. unequal chest expansion
D. increased minute volume
C
Which of the following patients is exhibiting signs of inadequate breathing?
A. a 41 year old woman with shallow respirations at a rate of 20 breaths/min
B. a 60 year old woman with bilaterally equal breath sounds
C. a 30 year old man with respirations of 18 breaths/minute and equal lung sounds
D. a 2 year old child with a respiratory rate of 33 breaths/min
A
Snoring respirations in an unresponsive patient are most likely the result of
A. foreign body airway obstruction
B. upper airway obstruction by the tongue
C. collapse of the trachea during breathing
D. swelling of the larynx and surrounding structures
B
In an unresponsive patient who has not sustained trauma, how are respirations of 16 breaths/min with good chest expansion most appropriately managed?
A. suctioning as needed and artificial ventilations
B. the jaw thrust maneuver and frequent suctioning
C. an airway adjunct and oxygen via non rebreather mask
D. an airway adjunct and ventilations with a BVM device
C
Initial management of an unconscious patient who fell 15 feet from a tree includes
A. performing a jaw thrust
B. performing a head tilt chin lift
C. providing oxygen or artificial ventilations
D. performing an immediate blood sweep on the patient
A
What should your first action be when treating a 40 year old man with rapid respirations?
A. apply 100% supplemental oxygen
B. insert an airway adjunct as needed.
C. assess the regularity and quality of breathing
D. initiate artificial ventilations with a pocket mask
C
In what position would you expect a patient with severe dyspnea to be in?
A. prone
B. supine
C. fowler’s
D. lateral recumbant
C
Which of the following listings of techniques and devices represents the correct order of preference for providing artificial ventilation?
A. pocket mask, one person BVM, two person BVM, flow restricted oxygen powered ventilation device
B. pocket mask, two person BVM, flow restricted oxygen powered ventilation device, one person BVM
C. one person BVM, pocket mask, two person BVM, flow restricted oxygen powered ventilation device
D. two person BVM, one person BVM, flow restricted oxygen powered ventilation device, pocket mask
B
Tidal volume is best defined as the
A. volume of air inhaled in a single breath
B. volume of air that remains in the upper airway
C. total volume of air that the lungs are capable of holding
D. volume of air moved in and out of the lungs each minute
A
You would most likely encounter agonal respirations in which of the following patients
A. a hypoxic patient who is in the early phase of compensation
B. a severely hypoxic patient who is in the later stages of compensation
C. a patient who is in the midst of respiratory failure
D. a semiconscious patient whose tongue is occluding the airway
C
A young woman who has overdosed on a strong narcotic dry is unconscious with slow, shallow breathing. As you attempt to insert an oropharyngeal airway, the patient begins to gag. You should
A. remove the oropharyngeal airway and prepare to suction the mouth
B. remove the oropharyngeal airway and insert a nasopharyngeal airway
C. suction the patients oropharynx as you insert a nasopharyngeal airway
D. make sure you are using an appropriate size of oropharyngeal airway
A
As you are ventilating an apneic patient using the one person bag valve mask technique, you note minimal rise of the chest each time you squeeze the bag. You should
A. ensure that the resevoir is attached to the bag valve mask device
B. squeeze the bag harder to endure delivery of adequate tidal volume
C. suction the patient’s mouth for 15 seconds and reattempt ventilations
D. evaluate the mask to face seal and the position of the patient’s head
D
After an adult cardiac arrest patient has been intubated by a paramedic, you are providing ventilations as your partner performs chest compressions. When ventilating the patient, you should
A. deliver 2 breaths during a brief pause in chest compressions
B. deliver each breath over 1 second at a rate of 8-10 breaths/min
C. hyperventilate the patient to maximize carbon dioxide elimination
D. deliver each breath over 2 seconds at a rate of 12-15 breaths per minute
B
When ventilating a patient with apnea with a pocket mask device, each breath should be delivered over
A. 1 second
B. 2 seconds
C. 3 seconds
D. 6 seconds
A
A 60 year old woman presents with acute respiratory distress. She is alert and oriented, but restless. Her respiratory rate is 26 breaths/min with adequate chest expansion and clear breath sounds. What is the most appropriate method of airway management for this patient?
A. supplemental oxygen with a nonrebreathing mask
B. a nasopharyngeal airway and assisted ventilations
C. a nasopharyngeal airway and supplemental oxygen
D. a nasal cannula with the flowmeter set at 4L/min
A
A semiconscious young man has shallow, gurgling respirations at a rate of 10 breaths/min. Initial management of this patient should include
A. suctioning the oropharynx
B. inserting a nasopharyngeal airway
C. initiating positive pressure ventilations
D. applying 100% oxygen via nonrebreather mask
A
Which of the following airway sounds would most likely indicate a lower airway obstruction?
A. stridor
B. crowing
C. gurgling
D. wheezing
D
Which of the following assessment findings would most likely indicate cardiac compromise?
A. tachypnea
B. tachycardia
C. irregular pulse
D. sudden bouts of syncope
C
A 50 year old man with crushing chest pain of sudden onset has a slightly elevated breathing rate. He is diaphoretic and looks sickly. In your initial care for this patient, you should
A. obtain baseline vitals
B. apply supplemental oxygen
C. ask him if he takes nitroglycerin
D. perform a focused physical exam
B
As you are assessing an elderly man who is complaining of chest pain, the patient suddenly loses consciousness. Your first step should be to
A. attach the AED
B. open the airway
C. assess for a pulse
D. assess for breathing
B
Freshly oxygenated blood returns to the heart via which of the following blood vessels?
A. Aorta
B. Vena cava
C. Pulmonary vein
D. Pulmonary artery
C
Which of the following statements regarding the automated external defibrillator is true?
A. it should be applied to patients at risk for cardiac arrest
B. it will analyze a patient’s rhythm accurately even when an EMT is performing compressions
C. it should not be used in patients with an implanted pacemaker
D. It can safely be used with children between 1 and 8 years of age
D
Nitroglycerin possesses which of the following effects when administered to patients with suspected cardiac chest pain?
A. vasodilation and increased myocardial oxygen supply
B. vasodilation and decreased myocardial oxygen supply
C. vasoconstriction and increased myocardial oxygen supply
D. vasoconstriction and decreased myocardial oxygen supply
A
You arrive at the scene of a 56 year old man who is not breathing. Your initial assessment reveals that the patient is pulseless and apneic. The patient’s wife tells you that her husband suddenly grabbed his chest and then passed out. As your partner confirms cardiac arrest and begins one rescuer CPR, you should
A. notify medical control
B. insert an airway adjunct
C. prepare the AED for use
D. obtain a SAMPLE history
C
You arrive at the scene of a 56 year old man who is not breathing. Your initial assessment reveals that the patient is pulseless and apneic. The patient’s wife tells you that her husband suddenly grabbed his chest and then passed out. When performing two rescuer CPR on this patient, you should
A. slowly compress the chest to a depth of about 1” to 1 1/2”
B. not attempt to synchronize compressions with ventilations
C. have your partner pause after 30 compressions as you give two ventilations
D. continue ventilations as the AED analyzes the patient’s cardiac rhythm
C
You arrive at the scene of a 56 year old man who is not breathing. Your initial assessment reveals that the patient is pulseless and apneic. The patient’s wife tells you that her husband suddenly grabbed his chest and then passed out. After successfully resuscitating the patient, you provide immediate transport. While en route to the hospital, the patient goes back into cardiac arrest. Your first action should be to
A. tell your partner to stop the ambulance
B. begin CPR and proceed to the hospital
C. contact medical control for further advice
D. analyze the patient’s heart rhythm with the AED
A
A 45 year old woman calls EMS because of severe chest pain. When you arrive, she advises you that she has taken two of her husband’s nitroglycerin tablets without relief. What is your most appropriate course of action?
A. Attach the AED, administer 100% supplemental oxygen
B. apply supplemental oxygen and transport the patient to the hospital without delay
C. call medical control and request permission to assist in the administration of another nitroglycerin tablet
D. obtain the patient’s blood pressure and administer one more nitroglycerin tablet if her systolic bp is greater than 100 mmHg.
B
Cardiac arrest in the adult population most often is the result of
A. myocardial infarction
B. respiratory failure
C. a cardiac arrythmia
D. accidental electrocution
C
Chest pain associated with cardiac compromise is often described as
A. sharp
B. stabbing
C. pressure
D. cramping
C
As you are attempting to resuscitate an adult man with cardiac arrest, you receive a “no shock advised” message from the AED. What should you do next?
A. continue CPR
B. check for a pulse
C. assess for breathing
D. reanalyze the rhythm
B
The myocardium receives its blood supply from the coronary arteries that branch directly from the
A. aorta
B. vena cava
C. left atrium
D. right ventricle
A
The EMT should consider performing 2 minutes of CPR prior to attaching the AED to adult victims of cardiac arrest when
A. the arrest is caused by a traumatic injury
B. the patient’s cardiac arrest was witnessed
C. the call to arrival time was more than 5 minutes
D. the patient has known coronary artery disease
C
Which of the following are side effects of nitroglycerin
A. nausea
B. anxiety
C. headache
D. hypertension
C
Which of the following patients would be the best candidate for the administration of nitroglycerin
A. a woman who has taken 3 doses of prescribed nitroglycerin without relief of chest pain
B. a woman with chest pain, prescribed nitroglycerin, and a blood pressure of 102/76 mmHg
C. a man with chest pain, a bottle of expired nitroglycerin, and a blood pressure of 110/80 mmHg
D. an elderly patient with crushing chest pain and a blood pressure of 90/60 mmHg
B
Which of the following chambers of the heart has the thickest walls?
A. left atrium
B. right atrium
C. left ventricle
D. right ventricle
C
In addition to oxygen therapy, the most effective way to minimize the detrimental effects associated with cardiac compromise is to
A. give the patient up to 4 doses of nitroglycerin
B. reassure the patient and provide prompt transport
C. transport the patient rapidly, using lights and sirens
D. request ALS support for all patients who have chest pain.
B
Which of the following questions would be most appropriate to ask when assessing a patient with chest pain?
A. What does the pain feel like?
B. Does the pain radiate to your arm?
C.. Would you describe the pain as sharp?
D. Is the pain worse when you take a deep breath?
A
Which of the following statements regarding one rescuer CPR is correct?
A. you should assess the patient for a pulse after 3 cycles of CPR
B. a compression to ventilation ratio of 60:1
C. Ventilations should be delivered over a period of 1-2 seconds
D. the chest should be allowed to fully recoil after each compression
D
You are caring for a 66 year old woman with severe pressure in her chest. As you initiate oxygen therapy, your partner should
A. notify medical control
B. obtain a SAMPLE history
C. measure the blood pressure
D. gather the patient’s medications
C
When managing a patient with chest pain, you should first
A. administer high concentration oxygen
B. place the patient in a position of comfort
C. request an ALS ambulance to the scene
D. measure the blood pressure and administer nitroglycerin
C
What is the most detrimental effect that tachycardia can have on a patient experiencing cardiac compromise?
A. increased blood pressure
B. increased oxygen demand
C. increased cardiac functioning
D. decreased cardiac functioning
B
After applying the AED to a 56 year old female in cardiac arrest, you analyze her cardiac rhythm and receive a “shock advised” message. First responders, who arrived at the scene before you, tell you that the patient was without CPR for about 10 minutes. You should
A. perform 2 minutes of CPR and then defibrillate
B. detatch the AED and prepare for immediate transport
C. deliver the shock as indicated followed immediately by CPR
D. notify medical control and request permission to cease resuscitation
C
Which of the following mechanisms of injury would necessitate performing a rapid trauma assessment?
A. a 5’8” tall adult that fell 12’ from a roof and landed on his side
B. a stable patient involved in a car crash whose passenger was killed
C. amputation of three toes from the patient’s left foot with controlled bleeding
D. an impaled object in the patient’s lower extrimity with minimal venous bleeding
B
You are assessing a 33 year old male’s GCS score. The patient opens his eyes in response to pain, is speaking with incomprehensible words, and withdraws from pain by flexing his upper extremities. What is his GCS score?
A. 6
B. 7
C. 8
D. 9
B
The police summon you to a residence for a domestic dispute. When you arrive, you are advised by a police officer that a man, who is now in custody, shot his wife. When you enter the residence, you see a woman lying supine. She is conscious, but very restless, and is in obvious respiratory distress. After ensuring a patent airway, your next course of action should be to
A. apply 100% oxygen
B. assess respiratory quality
C. compare carotid and radial pulses
D. check the condition of the patient’s skin
B
The police summon you to a residence for a domestic dispute. When you arrive, you are advised by a police officer that a man, who is now in custody, shot his wife. When you enter the residence, you see a woman lying supine. She is conscious, but very restless, and is in obvious respiratory distress. During which part of your assessment would you be most likely to discover a small caliber gunshot wound, with minimal bleeding, to the back?
A. general impression
B. initial assessment
C. rapid trauma assessment
D. detailed physical examination
C
When applying a vest style spinal immobilization device to a patient with traumatic neck pain, you should
A. immobilize the head prior to securing the torso straps
B. secure the torso section prior to immobilizing the head
C. ask the patient to exhale fully as you secure the torso
D. gently flex the head toward you as you position the device
B
General care for an amputated body part includes
A. immersing the amputated part in cold water to prevent further damage
B. thoroughly cleaning the amputated part and wrapping it in a sterile dressing
C. wrapping the amputated part in a moist, sterile dressing and placing it on ice
D. wrapping the amputated part in a moist sterile dressing and keeping it warm
C
You are called to a local knife throwing contest, where a 42 year old male has a large dagger impaled in the middle of his chest. Your assessment reveals that he is pulseless and apneic. How should you manage this patient and his injury?
A. carefully remove the knife, control the bleeding, and begin CPR
B. carefully remove the knife, control the bleeding, and attach an AED
C. secure the knife in place with a bulky dressing and transport immediately
D. make sure that the knife is secured, initiate CPR, and transport immediately
A
