ABEM Neurological & Psychiatric Disorders

Question 1

What is a seizure?

Accepted Answer

Brain activity

Answer

A seizure is fundamentally a transient occurrence of signs and/or symptoms due to abnormal excessive or synchronous neuronal activity in the brain. It is caused by uncontrolled electrical discharges in the brain, which can manifest in various ways, including altered consciousness, involuntary movements, or sensory disturbances.

Question 2

How to treat status epilepticus?

Accepted Answer

Lorazepam

Answer

Status epilepticus is a medical emergency characterized by prolonged or recurrent seizures without full recovery of consciousness between episodes. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam, are the first-line treatment because they act rapidly to suppress seizure activity by enhancing the effect of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

Question 3

What is stroke sign?

Accepted Answer

Facial droop

Answer

Facial droop is a classic and easily recognizable sign of a stroke, often affecting one side of the face. It occurs due to damage to the brain areas that control facial muscles. This symptom is part of the FAST mnemonic (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) and indicates a need for urgent medical evaluation for potential stroke.

Question 4

What is psychosis?

Accepted Answer

Delusions or hallucinations

Answer

Psychosis is a severe mental disorder characterized by a loss of contact with reality. Its hallmark symptoms include delusions (fixed, false beliefs not amenable to change in light of conflicting evidence) and hallucinations (perceiving things that are not actually present, such as hearing voices or seeing things). These symptoms indicate a significant disruption in thought processes and perception.

Question 5

What is priority in head trauma?

Accepted Answer

Spine and GCS

Answer

In head trauma, ensuring cervical spine immobilization is paramount to prevent further neurological injury, as concurrent spinal cord injury is common. Assessing the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is crucial for evaluating the patient's level of consciousness and neurological status, which guides immediate management and helps monitor changes over time. These are critical components of the primary survey in trauma.

(ABEM) American Board of Emergency Medicine Practice Test

(ABEM) American Board of Emergency Medicine Practice Test

ABEM Neurological & Psychiatric Disorders