NREMT - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Airways and Breathing 1

Question 1

What is the normal respiratory rate for an adult patient at rest?

Accepted Answer

12–20 breaths per minute

Answer

A normal adult respiratory rate is 12–20 breaths per minute. Rates below 12 (bradypnea) or above 20 (tachypnea) may indicate respiratory distress or other underlying conditions requiring intervention.

Question 2

Which of the following is the BEST indicator that artificial ventilations with a BVM are effective?

Accepted Answer

Visible, bilateral chest rise with each breath

Answer

Visible bilateral chest rise with each delivered breath is the primary confirmation that the airway is open and air is entering the lungs. Resistance or lack of rise suggests a poorly seated mask, airway obstruction, or incorrect technique.

Question 3

A nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) is CONTRAINDICATED in a patient with:

Accepted Answer

Suspected basilar skull fracture

Answer

A suspected basilar skull fracture contraindicates NPA use because the device could pass through a fractured cribriform plate and enter the cranial vault. Signs of basilar skull fracture include Battle's sign, raccoon eyes, and clear fluid from the nose or ears.

Question 4

At what flow rate should oxygen be set when using a non-rebreather mask (NRB) to ensure the reservoir bag remains adequately inflated?

Accepted Answer

10–15 liters per minute

Answer

A non-rebreather mask requires 10–15 liters per minute to keep the reservoir bag at least two-thirds full, delivering approximately 90–95% oxygen. Lower flow rates allow exhaled CO2 to re-enter the bag, reducing oxygen concentration.

Question 5

The primary function of the epiglottis is to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea during swallowing

Answer

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage that folds over the opening of the trachea (glottis) during swallowing, directing food and liquids into the esophagus and preventing aspiration into the lungs.

NREMT Practice Test

NREMT Practice Test

NREMT - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Airways and Breathing 1