FACEM FACEM Critical Care and Resuscitation 2

Question 1

Which ventilation strategy is recommended for patients with ARDS on mechanical ventilation?

Accepted Answer

Low tidal volume (6 mL/kg IBW) with permissive hypercapnia

Answer

Lung-protective ventilation using low tidal volumes of 6 mL/kg ideal body weight with permissive hypercapnia is the evidence-based standard for ARDS management.

Question 2

What is the most common reversible cause of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) in the emergency setting?

Accepted Answer

Tension pneumothorax

Answer

Tension pneumothorax is one of the most common and immediately reversible causes of PEA arrest, addressed by the '4 H's and 4 T's' framework.

Question 3

When managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), when should insulin infusion be initiated?

Accepted Answer

After fluid resuscitation and potassium ≥3.5 mmol/L

Answer

Insulin should only be started after initial fluid resuscitation and once potassium is ≥3.5 mmol/L to prevent life-threatening hypokalemia from insulin-driven cellular uptake.

Question 4

Which drug is used for rapid sequence intubation (RSI) as the preferred induction agent in hemodynamically unstable patients?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine

Answer

Ketamine is the preferred induction agent in hemodynamically unstable patients due to its sympathomimetic properties, which help maintain blood pressure during RSI.

Question 5

In hyperkalemia with ECG changes, what is the first drug that should be given?

Accepted Answer

Calcium gluconate or calcium chloride

Answer

Calcium (gluconate or chloride) is given first in hyperkalemia with ECG changes to membrane-stabilise the myocardium and prevent fatal arrhythmias, acting within minutes.

(FACEM) Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Practice Test

(FACEM) Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Practice Test

FACEM FACEM Critical Care and Resuscitation 2