EMR EMR Medical Emergencies and Special Populations

Question 1

A patient presents with sudden onset severe headache described as 'the worst headache of my life.' What condition should the EMR suspect?

Accepted Answer

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Answer

A sudden, severe 'thunderclap' headache is a classic warning sign of subarachnoid hemorrhage and requires immediate emergency care.

Question 2

When caring for a patient in a diabetic emergency who is conscious, which action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Give oral glucose if the patient can swallow

Answer

A conscious diabetic patient who can swallow should receive oral glucose to rapidly raise blood sugar levels.

Question 3

A patient with a known seizure disorder is postictal. What is the EMR's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Maintain an open airway and place in recovery position

Answer

During the postictal phase the airway must be maintained and the patient placed in the recovery position to prevent aspiration.

Question 4

Which sign is most indicative of anaphylaxis in a patient who was stung by a bee?

Accepted Answer

Hives, wheezing, and hypotension

Answer

Anaphylaxis presents with systemic signs including urticaria, bronchospasm (wheezing), and circulatory collapse (hypotension).

Question 5

An infant presents with a bulging fontanelle, high-pitched cry, and fever. What should the EMR suspect?

Accepted Answer

Meningitis

Answer

A bulging fontanelle combined with high-pitched cry and fever in an infant is a classic presentation of meningitis.

EMR - Emergency Medical Responder Practice Test