SPEX Emergency Medicine 5

Question 1

Which antidote is used for acetaminophen overdose and when should it be administered?

Accepted Answer

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) based on Rumack-Matthew nomogram

Answer

N-acetylcysteine is the antidote for acetaminophen toxicity; the Rumack-Matthew nomogram determines treatment thresholds based on serum level and time since ingestion.

Question 2

A patient presents with acute angle-closure glaucoma. Which symptom combination is classic?

Accepted Answer

Sudden unilateral eye pain, headache, nausea, and halos around lights

Answer

Acute angle-closure glaucoma presents with sudden, severe unilateral eye pain, headache, vomiting, halos around lights, and a mid-dilated non-reactive pupil.

Question 3

In pediatric resuscitation, what is the correct first energy dose for defibrillation?

Accepted Answer

2 J/kg

Answer

Per PALS guidelines, initial defibrillation dose in pediatric VF/pVT is 2 J/kg, with subsequent doses at 4 J/kg.

Question 4

A patient presents after a bee sting with urticaria, stridor, and hypotension. What is the FIRST-LINE treatment?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine 0.3mg IM in the lateral thigh

Answer

Epinephrine IM is the first-line, life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis; antihistamines and steroids are adjuncts only.

Question 5

What is the Cushing's triad and what does it indicate?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension, bradycardia, and irregular respirations indicating increased intracranial pressure

Answer

Cushing's triad (hypertension, bradycardia, irregular respirations) represents the brainstem's response to herniation from elevated ICP and signals impending death.

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Exam Practice Test

SPEX Emergency Medicine 5