#1
Which of the following is a primary assessment step in EMS?
Assessing vital signs
ExplanationAssessing vital signs is crucial for evaluating a patient's overall condition and determining the urgency of care.
#2
What is the primary purpose of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) in EMS?
To assess a patient's level of consciousness
ExplanationGCS helps in evaluating a patient's neurological status, including their level of consciousness, following trauma or illness.
#3
Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?
Low blood sugar levels
ExplanationDiabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) typically results in high blood sugar levels, rather than low blood sugar levels.
#4
What is the primary goal of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in EMS?
To maintain circulation and oxygenation to vital organs
ExplanationCPR aims to restore blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs, such as the brain and heart, during cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
#5
What is the purpose of the 'OPQRST' mnemonic in EMS patient assessment?
To systematically assess pain and related symptoms
ExplanationOPQRST helps EMS providers evaluate the onset, provocation, quality, radiation, severity, and time course of a patient's pain or discomfort.
#6
During patient assessment in EMS, SAMPLE history refers to:
A mnemonic for remembering important questions about the patient's medical history
ExplanationSAMPLE history mnemonic assists in obtaining essential information about the patient's background and condition.
#7
What does the 'M' stand for in the SAMPLE history mnemonic used in EMS?
Medication history
ExplanationThe 'M' in SAMPLE history pertains to obtaining details about the patient's medication usage.
#8
Which of the following conditions is characterized by a sudden interruption of blood flow to a part of the brain?
Stroke
ExplanationA stroke occurs due to the sudden blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain, leading to impaired brain function.
#9
Which of the following symptoms is NOT typically associated with a heart attack?
Sudden, severe headache
ExplanationWhile heart attacks manifest various symptoms, sudden, severe headache is not commonly associated with this condition.
#10
What is the appropriate initial treatment for a patient experiencing severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)?
Injecting epinephrine (adrenaline)
ExplanationEpinephrine injection is crucial in managing anaphylaxis as it helps counteract severe allergic reactions quickly.
#11
In EMS, what does the term 'triage' refer to?
The process of assigning priorities to patients based on the severity of their condition
ExplanationTriage is a systematic process used to prioritize patient care based on the urgency and severity of their medical needs.
#12
What does the acronym 'ABCDE' stand for in EMS?
Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Environment
ExplanationABCDE serves as a mnemonic for the systematic assessment of critically ill or injured patients.
#13
During the assessment of a patient with difficulty breathing, which action should be prioritized?
Administering oxygen immediately
ExplanationAdministering oxygen is vital to ensure sufficient oxygen supply to the patient's tissues and organs during respiratory distress.
#14
What is the primary treatment for a patient experiencing a seizure?
Protecting the patient from injury and ensuring an open airway
ExplanationDuring a seizure, it's crucial to protect the patient from harm and ensure they have a clear airway to facilitate breathing.
#15
Which of the following actions is NOT part of the secondary assessment in EMS?
Administering emergency medications
ExplanationSecondary assessment focuses on gathering detailed medical history, performing physical exams, and evaluating vital signs rather than administering medications.
#16
Which of the following is a common sign of internal bleeding?
Rapid heartbeat
ExplanationInternal bleeding often leads to increased heart rate (tachycardia) as the body attempts to compensate for blood loss.
#17
Which of the following is a common symptom of a tension pneumothorax?
Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
ExplanationTension pneumothorax often leads to rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) as a compensatory response to decreased oxygenation.