RDA Recognition and Management of Medical Emergencies 5

Question 1

A patient with epilepsy has a tonic-clonic seizure in the chair. Which action is CONTRAINDICATED during the seizure?

Accepted Answer

Placing a bite block or tongue depressor between the teeth

Answer

Nothing should be inserted into the mouth of a seizing patient; bite blocks or tongue depressors can cause injury to the patient and clinician.

Question 2

Which of the following signs is MOST indicative of an impending hyperventilation episode?

Accepted Answer

Rapid shallow breathing, dizziness, and tingling in the extremities

Answer

Hyperventilation presents with rapid shallow breathing, dizziness, perioral tingling, and tingling in the hands/feet due to decreased CO2 levels.

Question 3

When managing a hyperventilating patient, the dental team should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Have the patient breathe slowly and coach calm breathing

Answer

Coaching slow, controlled breathing to raise CO2 levels is the primary treatment for hyperventilation; supplemental oxygen is not indicated.

Question 4

A patient loses consciousness during a procedure. After activating EMS, the patient has a pulse but is not breathing normally. The dental team should:

Accepted Answer

Deliver rescue breaths at 1 breath every 5-6 seconds

Answer

When a pulse is present but breathing is absent or inadequate, rescue breathing at 1 breath every 5-6 seconds (10-12/min) is appropriate.

Question 5

Which of the following is the MOST reliable early sign of local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST)?

Accepted Answer

Perioral numbness and metallic taste

Answer

Early CNS signs of LAST include perioral numbness, tingling, and metallic taste, which precede more severe cardiovascular and neurological effects.

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

RDA Recognition and Management of Medical Emergencies 5