AEMCA Medical Emergencies 4

Question 1

A patient presents with confusion, fever (103°F), muscle rigidity, and autonomic instability after starting a new antipsychotic. What condition should be suspected?

Accepted Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Answer

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics characterized by hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and autonomic dysfunction.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the Somogyi effect in diabetic patients?

Accepted Answer

Rebound hyperglycemia following nocturnal hypoglycemia

Answer

The Somogyi effect is rebound hyperglycemia that occurs after nocturnal hypoglycemia triggers counter-regulatory hormone release.

Question 3

A patient on dialysis presents with peaked T-waves on ECG and blood pressure of 80/50. Which intervention should be considered FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Calcium gluconate IV

Answer

Calcium gluconate IV is the first intervention in severe hyperkalemia as it immediately stabilizes the cardiac membrane, buying time for potassium-lowering measures.

Question 4

In thyroid storm, which of the following is the CORRECT order of medication administration?

Accepted Answer

PTU → beta-blocker → iodine → steroids

Answer

PTU must be given before iodine to block new thyroid hormone synthesis before iodine is administered, which would otherwise fuel more hormone production.

Question 5

A patient presents with altered mental status, fever, headache, and a non-blanching petechial rash. What is the priority action?

Accepted Answer

Administer antibiotics immediately without delay

Answer

Meningococcal meningitis with septicemia requires immediate antibiotics; delaying treatment for imaging or lumbar puncture significantly increases mortality.

AEMCA - Advanced Emergency Medical Care Assistant Practice Test

AEMCA - Advanced Emergency Medical Care Assistant Practice Test

AEMCA Medical Emergencies 4