EMT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield EMT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which medication class does naloxone (Narcan) belong to? → Opioid antagonist
2. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Patient Assessment? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
3. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Medical Emergencies? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
4. What does 'indication' mean in pharmacology? → A condition for which a medication is appropriate
5. An EMT is dispatched to a structure fire scene. Before entering to treat victims, the EMT must ensure: → The fire is completely extinguished and the scene is declared safe by fire command
6. Oral glucose is indicated for a diabetic patient who has an altered mental status and: → Can protect their own airway
7. When responding to a scene involving a patient who has been electrically shocked, the EMT must FIRST: → Ensure the electrical source is de-energized before approaching
8. Before assisting a patient with their prescribed nitroglycerin, the EMT must verify: → The prescription is the patient's own
9. The PASG (pneumatic anti-shock garment) is currently contraindicated in which condition? → Penetrating chest trauma
10. Which technique is used to confirm proper endotracheal tube placement in the field? → Checking for bilateral breath sounds and watching for chest rise
11. What is the primary purpose of standardized procedures in Medical Emergencies? → To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
12. A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order instructs EMTs to: → Withhold resuscitative measures as specified
13. A patient has an impaled object in the eye. What is the correct EMT management? → Stabilize the object in place and cover both eyes with loose dressings
14. When responding to a suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in an occupied building, what is the EMT's most important first action? → Confirm the scene is safe and the building has been ventilated or evacuated
15. Which of the following is an indication for the use of a nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) over an oropharyngeal airway (OPA)? → The patient is semi-conscious and has an intact gag reflex
16. A blood pressure cuff that is TOO SMALL for a patient's arm will produce a blood pressure reading that is: → Falsely high
17. When performing a jaw-thrust maneuver, what is the primary purpose of this technique? → Open the airway without moving the cervical spine
18. The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) is primarily used by first responders to: → Identify hazardous materials and determine appropriate initial response actions
19. Which best describes the principle of beneficence as it applies to EMT practice? → Acting in the patient's best interest and providing care that benefits them
20. Which of the following is a key part of patient assessment during a medical emergency? → Conducting a primary survey of vital signs
21. An EMT arrives at a scene where a power line has fallen on a vehicle containing a trapped patient. What is the most appropriate initial action? → Stage at a safe distance and notify the power company and fire department
22. A traction splint (e.g., Hare or Sager) is specifically indicated for which type of fracture? → Closed midshaft femur fracture
23. An EMT working in an urban environment frequently responds to scenes in unsafe neighborhoods at night. The BEST proactive safety measure is to: → Always stage until law enforcement confirms scene safety
24. The '5 Rights' of medication administration include all of the following EXCEPT: → Right diagnosis
25. What is the correct adult dose of aspirin an EMT should administer to a patient with suspected acute MI? → 81–325 mg chewed
26. What is the correct flow rate when administering oxygen via nasal cannula? → 1-6 L/min
27. A patient is found in a confined space with potential toxic gas exposure. What should the EMT do FIRST? → Request specialized rescue and await hazmat clearance before entry
28. According to DOT hazmat placard classifications, which class number identifies a flammable liquid? → Class 3
29. A competent adult patient has the right to: → Refuse medical treatment
30. An EMT working a 24-hour shift experiences microsleeps near the end of the shift. This MOST directly threatens: → Safe vehicle operation and clinical decision-making