EMS Neurological Emergencies

Question 1

What is the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS) primarily used to assess?

Accepted Answer

Signs and symptoms of stroke

Answer

Traumatic brain injury severity

Answer

Spinal cord injury level

Answer

Seizure activity and duration

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a component of the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale?

Accepted Answer

Pupil dilation

Answer

Facial droop

Answer

Arm drift

Answer

Abnormal speech

Question 3

A patient reports a sudden, severe headache described as 'the worst headache of my life.' What condition should the EMT most suspect?

Accepted Answer

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answer

Tension headache

Answer

Migraine with aura

Answer

Cluster headache

Question 4

What is the correct term for a temporary neurological deficit that fully resolves within 24 hours?

Accepted Answer

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Answer

Ischemic stroke

Answer

Hemorrhagic stroke

Answer

Todd's paralysis

Question 5

Which of the following is a common postictal sign following a generalized tonic-clonic seizure?

Accepted Answer

Confusion and drowsiness

Answer

Elevated blood pressure with bradycardia

Answer

Widened pulse pressure

Answer

Hypertensive crisis

Question 6

A patient with signs of acute ischemic stroke should ideally be transported to:

Accepted Answer

A certified stroke center capable of administering thrombolytics

Answer

The nearest hospital regardless of capability

Answer

A level I trauma center

Answer

Any facility with a licensed radiologist

Question 7

The AVPU scale is used in EMS to quickly evaluate which parameter?

Accepted Answer

Level of consciousness

Answer

Vital sign trends

Answer

Stroke severity

Answer

Pain intensity