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

The CPSS is a rapid prehospital tool that evaluates facial droop, arm drift, and abnormal speech to identify potential stroke patients.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Pupil dilation

Answer

The CPSS assesses three findings: facial droop, arm drift, and abnormal speech; pupil dilation is not part of this scale.

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

A sudden, severe 'thunderclap' headache described as the worst ever is a classic presentation of subarachnoid hemorrhage and requires immediate transport.

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

A TIA produces stroke-like symptoms that resolve completely within 24 hours (usually within 1 hour) and is a major warning sign for an impending stroke.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Confusion and drowsiness

Answer

The postictal phase after a seizure typically involves confusion, drowsiness, fatigue, and disorientation as the brain recovers from abnormal electrical activity.

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

EMS Neurological Emergencies