ADEX Managing Medical Emergencies 3

Question 1

A patient taking warfarin presents with prolonged bleeding after a periodontal debridement. Which initial local measure is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Apply a topical thrombin-soaked gauze with direct pressure

Answer

Direct pressure with hemostatic gauze (e.g., topical thrombin or oxidized cellulose) is the first local measure before considering systemic interventions.

Question 2

Which of the following is the MOST common cause of cardiac arrest in the dental office?

Accepted Answer

Acute myocardial infarction

Answer

Acute myocardial infarction is the most common cause of cardiac arrest in dental settings due to the cardiovascular stress of dental treatment.

Question 3

When performing rescue breathing for an adult during CPR, each breath should be delivered over how long?

Accepted Answer

1 second

Answer

Each rescue breath should be delivered over 1 second, causing visible chest rise, to minimize gastric inflation and interruption of compressions.

Question 4

A patient with asthma begins wheezing and shows signs of respiratory distress mid-appointment. After positioning the patient upright, what is the next step?

Accepted Answer

Assist the patient in using their prescribed bronchodilator inhaler

Answer

The first pharmacologic intervention for a mild-to-moderate asthma attack is the patient's own short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator (e.g., albuterol).

Question 5

Which symptom would most suggest a TIA (transient ischemic attack) rather than a simple syncopal episode in a dental patient?

Accepted Answer

Unilateral facial drooping with slurred speech

Answer

Unilateral neurological deficits such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech indicate a TIA or stroke rather than vasovagal syncope.

ADEX - Dental Hygiene Exam Practice Test

ADEX - Dental Hygiene Exam Practice Test

ADEX Managing Medical Emergencies 3