EMS EMS Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies 2

Question 1

A patient with known COPD is in severe respiratory distress with SpO2 of 82%. What oxygen delivery device is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Venturi mask titrated to 88–92% SpO2

Answer

COPD patients require controlled oxygen via Venturi mask targeting SpO2 of 88–92% to avoid suppressing their hypoxic drive.

Question 2

Which breath sounds are characteristic of acute pulmonary edema?

Accepted Answer

Bilateral crackles (rales) in the lung bases

Answer

Acute pulmonary edema causes fluid in the alveoli, producing bilateral basilar crackles (rales) due to fluid-filled air sacs re-opening.

Question 3

What position should a patient with acute pulmonary edema be placed in to improve respiratory effort?

Accepted Answer

High Fowler's (sitting upright)

Answer

High Fowler's position (sitting upright, legs dangling) reduces venous return and relieves cardiac workload, improving breathing in pulmonary edema.

Question 4

A patient has tracheal deviation to the right, absent breath sounds on the left, and severe respiratory distress after a motor vehicle crash. What condition should be suspected?

Accepted Answer

Left-sided tension pneumothorax

Answer

Tracheal deviation away from the affected side, absent breath sounds, and hemodynamic instability indicate tension pneumothorax requiring immediate needle decompression.

Question 5

Where is needle decompression performed for a tension pneumothorax using the traditional approach?

Accepted Answer

2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line

Answer

Traditional needle decompression is performed at the 2nd intercostal space, midclavicular line, just above the 3rd rib to avoid neurovascular structures.

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

EMS EMS Cardiac & Respiratory Emergencies 2