AEMCA Toxicology and Substance Abuse 3

Question 1

A patient is found unconscious in a closed garage with a running engine. What pulse oximetry reading would you most likely expect?

Accepted Answer

SpO2 of 98–100% (falsely normal)

Answer

SpO2 of 60–65% (critically low)

Answer

SpO2 of 80–85% (moderately low)

Answer

SpO2 of 70–75% (severely low)

Question 2

Which class of substances accounts for the greatest number of drug overdose deaths in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Opioids (including synthetic opioids)

Answer

Cocaine

Answer

Methamphetamine

Answer

Benzodiazepines

Question 3

A patient presents with confusion, ataxia, and nystagmus after ingesting from an unlabeled bottle, but has no severe acidosis. Which toxic alcohol is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Isopropanol (rubbing alcohol)

Answer

Methanol

Answer

Ethylene glycol (antifreeze)

Answer

Propylene glycol

Question 4

What is the mechanism of action of physostigmine when used to treat anticholinergic toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Inhibits acetylcholinesterase, increasing synaptic acetylcholine levels

Answer

Directly stimulates muscarinic cholinergic receptors

Answer

Blocks alpha-adrenergic receptors peripherally

Answer

Competes directly with anticholinergic agents at the receptor

Question 5

When a patient has ingested a caustic substance (strong acid or base), which prehospital intervention is contraindicated?

Accepted Answer

Inducing vomiting or gastric lavage

Answer

Supportive airway management

Answer

IV fluid administration for hemodynamic support

Answer

High-flow supplemental oxygen

Question 6

A patient presents with confusion, visual disturbances, and severe metabolic acidosis after ingesting 'antifreeze.' Which toxic agent is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Methanol

Answer

Isopropanol

Answer

Ethylene glycol

Answer

Propylene glycol

Question 7

Which of the following statements about illicit fentanyl is TRUE and relevant to prehospital provider safety?

Accepted Answer

Fentanyl can be absorbed transdermally and through mucous membranes, posing exposure risk

Answer

Fentanyl is 10 times more potent than morphine

Answer

A single dose of naloxone always fully reverses illicit fentanyl overdose

Answer

Fentanyl causes less respiratory depression than morphine at equivalent doses