Free First Aid Sudden Medical Emergencies Questions and Answers

Question 1

A coworker suddenly cries out, stiffens, and then begins to jerk uncontrollably on the floor. What is the most appropriate action to take while they are actively seizing?

Accepted Answer

Move nearby furniture away and place a small, soft item, like a folded jacket, under their head.

Answer

During a seizure, the priority is to protect the person from injury. You should not restrain them or put anything in their mouth, as this can cause harm. Clearing the area of dangerous objects and cushioning their head protects them from their surroundings. CPR is not necessary unless the person stops breathing after the seizure has ended.

Question 2

Which of the following is a primary component of the F.A.S.T. acronym, used for the rapid recognition of a stroke?

Accepted Answer

A - Arm weakness

Answer

The F.A.S.T. acronym stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. Arm weakness, often on one side of the body, is a key sign to check for when you suspect someone is having a stroke.

Question 3

A person with known diabetes is awake but acting confused and irritable. Their skin is pale, cool, and sweaty. They are able to swallow. What is the most appropriate first aid?

Accepted Answer

Provide them with 15-20 grams of sugar, such as fruit juice or regular soda.

Answer

These signs are characteristic of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The correct treatment is to give a conscious person a fast-acting source of sugar to raise their blood glucose levels. Fruit juice, regular soda, or glucose tablets are good options. Giving insulin would lower their blood sugar further, which is dangerous. Diet soda contains no sugar.

Question 4

A person is stung by a wasp and within minutes develops widespread hives, facial swelling, and reports feeling that their throat is closing. They have a known severe allergy. What is the most critical and immediate first aid action?

Accepted Answer

Assist them in using their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector.

Answer

The person is exhibiting signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. The first-line treatment is epinephrine, which must be administered immediately to counter the severe symptoms like airway swelling. While antihistamines may help with hives, they work too slowly for a severe reaction. Calling 911 is also critical, but administering epinephrine is the most important immediate step.

Question 5

After feeling dizzy and lightheaded, a person briefly loses consciousness and slumps to the floor. They wake up within a minute. What is the proper care for this person, assuming no signs of injury?

Accepted Answer

Have them continue to lie flat on their back, and consider elevating their legs.

Answer

After fainting (syncope), the goal is to improve blood flow to the brain. Having the person lie flat is the safest position. Elevating their legs can further help restore circulation to the brain. Helping them stand up too quickly may cause them to faint again. Splashing water and giving caffeine are not recommended first aid measures.

First Aid Practice Test

First Aid Practice Test

Free First Aid Sudden Medical Emergencies Questions and Answers