ATC Acute Care 3

Question 1

Which sign best distinguishes heat stroke from heat exhaustion?

Accepted Answer

Core temperature above 104°F (40°C) with central nervous system dysfunction

Answer

Heat stroke is defined by a rectal temperature exceeding 104°F and CNS dysfunction such as confusion, combativeness, or loss of consciousness.

Question 2

An athlete sustains a penetrating eye injury from a projectile. The athletic trainer should:

Accepted Answer

Cover the eye with a rigid shield without pressing on it and refer immediately

Answer

A penetrating eye injury requires a rigid protective shield placed over the eye without pressure, and immediate referral to ophthalmology to prevent further damage.

Question 3

What is the recommended method to cool an athlete with exertional heat stroke in the field?

Accepted Answer

Cold-water immersion (tub or pool) targeting 38.3–39.4°C rectal temp

Answer

Cold-water immersion is the most effective field cooling method for exertional heat stroke and should target a safe rectal temperature before transport.

Question 4

When evaluating an unconscious athlete's breathing, you should check for no more than:

Accepted Answer

10 seconds

Answer

Current AHA guidelines recommend checking for breathing for no more than 10 seconds to minimize delay in initiating CPR if breathing is absent.

Question 5

An athlete with a suspected pneumothorax will most likely present with:

Accepted Answer

Unilateral decreased breath sounds, dyspnea, and tracheal deviation in tension cases

Answer

Pneumothorax presents with absent or decreased breath sounds on the affected side, dyspnea, and in tension pneumothorax, tracheal deviation away from the injury.

(ATC) Certified Athletic Trainer Practice Test

(ATC) Certified Athletic Trainer Practice Test

ATC Acute Care 3