EMS Treatment Planning & Management 5

Question 1

A patient with Type 1 diabetes presents with fruity breath, Kussmaul respirations, and blood glucose of 480 mg/dL. This presentation is MOST consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Answer

DKA presents with hyperglycemia, ketone production (fruity breath), and Kussmaul respirations as the body compensates for metabolic acidosis.

Question 2

During management of a patient with suspected stroke, which intervention is MOST critical to optimize outcomes?

Accepted Answer

Document FAST exam findings and minimize scene time

Answer

Rapid identification using FAST/Cincinnati Stroke Scale and minimizing scene time to allow early CT and tPA administration within the therapeutic window is paramount.

Question 3

A patient is in status epilepticus (continuous seizure >5 minutes). Which pharmacological intervention is MOST appropriate in the prehospital setting?

Accepted Answer

Lorazepam or diazepam IV/IM per protocol

Answer

Benzodiazepines (lorazepam, diazepam, midazolam) are the first-line prehospital treatment for status epilepticus by enhancing GABA inhibition.

Question 4

When treating a patient with a femur fracture, which concern should guide fluid resuscitation?

Accepted Answer

A single femur fracture can cause 500-1500 mL of blood loss into the thigh

Answer

A closed femur fracture can sequester 500-1500 mL of blood into the thigh compartment, necessitating assessment for hemorrhagic shock.

Question 5

A patient has a SpO2 of 100% but you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning. What is the CORRECT management?

Accepted Answer

Administer high-flow oxygen via non-rebreather mask regardless of SpO2

Answer

Pulse oximetry cannot differentiate carboxyhemoglobin from oxyhemoglobin, so 100% SpO2 is falsely reassuring; high-flow O2 accelerates CO elimination.

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

(EMS) Emergency Medical Services Certified Practice Test

EMS Treatment Planning & Management 5