ABEM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ABEM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is suicide risk factor? → History of attempt
2. A patient with known Addison's disease presents with hypotension, weakness, and hyponatremia with hyperkalemia. What is the immediate treatment? → IV hydrocortisone and normal saline
3. What is the correct placement site for an intraosseous (IO) needle in an adult trauma patient when IV access is unavailable? → Proximal tibia 2 cm below tibial tuberosity medially
4. What tool evaluates mental status? → GCS
5. In American Board of Emergency Medicine, what is the PRIMARY purpose of conducting regular safety drills and exercises? → To ensure personnel can respond effectively in emergencies
6. What is the first step in managing a cardiac arrest? → Initiate CPR
7. A patient on ACE inhibitor presents with serum potassium of 6.8 mEq/L and peaked T-waves on ECG. What is the FIRST treatment to administer? → Calcium gluconate IV
8. What is the first step in trauma assessment? → Primary survey
9. How does the ABEM body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework that guides decision-making and standard practices
10. A patient presents with tetanus following a puncture wound. Which medication directly addresses the pathophysiology of muscle spasms in tetanus? → Benzodiazepines
11. In damage control resuscitation, what ratio of packed red blood cells to fresh frozen plasma to platelets is recommended? → 1:1:1
12. A patient with known cirrhosis presents with confusion and asterixis. Ammonia level is elevated. What is the first-line treatment for hepatic encephalopathy? → Lactulose and rifaximin
13. A 7-year-old presents with a 3-day history of periorbital swelling, fever, and proptosis with painful eye movement. What is the most concerning diagnosis? → Orbital cellulitis
14. A comatose patient has pinpoint pupils, bradycardia, and respiratory depression after being found with empty prescription bottles. What is the antidote? → Naloxone 0.4–2 mg IV
15. A 65-year-old diabetic presents with painful ophthalmoplegia, ptosis, and normal pupillary response. What is the most likely etiology? → Microvascular ischemic CN III palsy
16. What indicates respiratory distress? → Cyanosis and effort
17. A 45-year-old with known alcoholism presents after a seizure. He last drank 48 hours ago. His blood alcohol level is 0. What is the MOST appropriate next step? → Administer lorazepam and thiamine
18. What is a symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning? → Headache and confusion
19. How does the ABEM body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework that guides decision-making and standard practices
20. What is the purpose of cervical spine immobilization? → Prevent spine injury
21. Which tool is used to stop external bleeding? → Tourniquet
22. A 22-year-old sustains an anterior shoulder dislocation during a tackle. Which neurovascular structure is most commonly injured in this dislocation? → Axillary nerve
23. Which foundational principle is MOST important for success in the American Board of Emergency Medicine profession? → Commitment to continuous learning, ethical practice, and quality outcomes
24. What is the PRIMARY ethical obligation of a certified American Board of Emergency Medicine professional regarding confidential information? → Protect it from unauthorized disclosure at all times
25. A patient with ulcerative colitis presents with >10 bloody stools per day, fever, tachycardia, and Hgb of 8. What is the first management step in the ED? → IV corticosteroids and GI consultation
26. Which of the following is the MOST reliable antidote for methanol poisoning in the emergency setting when fomepizole is unavailable? → Ethanol IV infusion
27. A 25-year-old with a stab wound to the left chest develops JVD, hypotension, and muffled heart sounds. What procedure is indicated? → Needle pericardiocentesis or ED thoracotomy
28. A 2-year-old presents with inspiratory stridor and a barking cough. Which intervention is first-line for moderate croup? → Dexamethasone 0.6 mg/kg IM/PO
29. A patient with a gunshot wound to the right upper quadrant has a BP of 90/60 despite 2L NS. FAST shows free fluid in Morison's pouch. What is the next step? → Emergent operative laparotomy
30. A 30-year-old falls on an outstretched hand and has anatomical snuffbox tenderness. Initial X-rays are negative. What is the most appropriate management? → Thumb spica splint with MRI or repeat X-ray in 1-2 weeks