CEN Toxicology and Environmental Emergencies 3

Question 1

A hiker presents with core temperature of 28°C, absent shivering, and loss of consciousness. What is the correct classification of this hypothermia?

Accepted Answer

Severe hypothermia

Answer

Mild hypothermia

Answer

Moderate hypothermia

Answer

Profound hypothermia

Question 2

Which rewarming method is most appropriate for a patient in severe hypothermia (28°C) with cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

Answer

Passive external rewarming (warm blankets)

Answer

Active external rewarming (warming blankets, forced air)

Answer

IV warm fluids only

Question 3

A patient presents with heat stroke (core temp 41.5°C) and altered mental status. Which cooling method achieves the fastest core temperature reduction?

Accepted Answer

Cold water immersion

Answer

Tepid sponge bath with fanning

Answer

Ice packs to axilla and groin

Answer

Cool IV fluids alone

Question 4

A patient presents with pain, pallor, and numbness of the fingers after exposure to extreme cold. The fingers are waxy with hard white skin. Which stage of frostbite is this?

Accepted Answer

Deep frostbite (third/fourth degree)

Answer

Frostnip

Answer

Superficial frostbite (second degree)

Answer

First-degree frostbite

Question 5

A scuba diver surfaces too rapidly and presents with joint pain, mottled skin, and shortness of breath 30 minutes after ascent. Which treatment is indicated?

Accepted Answer

100% oxygen and transfer to hyperbaric chamber

Answer

IV morphine for pain management

Answer

Nitroglycerin for vascular dilation

Answer

Warm bath and aspirin

Question 6

A patient presents after a lightning strike with confusion, entry and exit burns, and a heart rate of 35 bpm with a third-degree AV block. What is the priority intervention?

Accepted Answer

CPR and ACLS protocol; transcutaneous pacing

Answer

Topical burn treatment of entry/exit wounds

Answer

Defibrillation immediately

Answer

IV magnesium sulfate for dysrhythmia