What is the leading cause of death in geriatric patients?
- A. Hypertension.
- B. Arthritis.
- C. Heart disease.
- D. Altered mental status.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in geriatric patients. It encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, which are more prevalent in older individuals. These conditions can lead to serious complications and ultimately result in higher mortality rates among the elderly population. Hypertension (choice A) is a risk factor for heart disease but not the leading cause of death in geriatric patients. Arthritis (choice B) is a chronic condition affecting the joints, not a primary cause of death in this population. Altered mental status (choice D) is a symptom rather than a leading cause of death in geriatric patients.
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Which of the following is MOST likely to occur in conjunction with a breech presentation?
- A. Vertex presentation
- B. Maternal hypertension
- C. Prolapsed umbilical cord
- D. Premature rupture of the amniotic sac
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In a breech presentation, where the baby's buttocks or feet present first, there is an increased risk of the umbilical cord slipping down alongside or below the presenting part, leading to a prolapsed umbilical cord. This is a serious complication that can compromise fetal blood flow and oxygenation, necessitating prompt intervention to prevent adverse outcomes. Choices A, B, and D are less likely to occur in conjunction with a breech presentation. Vertex presentation is the normal head-first presentation, maternal hypertension is a separate condition that may not be directly related to fetal presentation, and premature rupture of the amniotic sac can happen independently of the baby's presentation.
When assessing a 30-year-old female in labor, what should the EMT do?
- A. Ask the mother when she is expecting to deliver.
- B. Avoid questioning the patient about her medical history.
- C. Determine the stage of her labor by examining her.
- D. Recall that delivery is imminent if she is crowning.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: During the assessment of a 30-year-old female in labor, the EMT should be aware that delivery is imminent if she is crowning. Crowning indicates that the baby's head is visible at the vaginal opening, signaling that the birth is progressing rapidly and the baby will soon be delivered. This is a critical moment that requires preparedness for the birth process and ensuring a safe delivery environment. Choice A is incorrect because asking the mother when she is expecting to deliver is not relevant when the baby's head is visible at the vaginal opening. Choice B is incorrect as obtaining the patient's medical history is essential for providing appropriate care. Choice C is incorrect because determining the stage of labor by examining the patient is important but recognizing crowning indicates that delivery is imminent and requires immediate action.
A 3-year-old boy is found to be in cardiopulmonary arrest. As you begin one-rescuer CPR, your partner prepares the AED. What is the appropriate compression to ventilation ratio for this child?
- A. 3:01
- B. 30:2
- C. 15:2
- D. 5:1
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct compression to ventilation ratio for a single rescuer performing CPR on a child is 30:2. This ratio ensures adequate circulation and oxygenation during CPR. 30 compressions help maintain blood flow, while 2 rescue breaths provide oxygenation. Choice A (3:01) is incorrect as it does not follow the standard CPR guidelines for children. Choice C (15:2) is incorrect as it is the ratio used for adult CPR. Choice D (5:1) is incorrect as it is not the recommended ratio for child CPR.
Which of the following clinical signs would MOST suggest acute respiratory distress in a 2-month-old infant?
- A. Heart rate of 130 beats/min
- B. Respiratory rate of 30 breaths/min
- C. Abdominal breathing
- D. Grunting respirations
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Grunting respirations are a key clinical sign of acute respiratory distress in infants. Grunting is a protective mechanism where the infant exhales against a partially closed glottis to increase functional residual capacity and oxygenation. This is often seen in conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, or other causes of respiratory compromise in infants. Monitoring respiratory patterns like grunting is crucial for early recognition and intervention in infants with respiratory distress. Choices A, B, and C are less specific to acute respiratory distress in infants. While an elevated heart rate and respiratory rate can be present in respiratory distress, grunting respirations are a more direct indicator of significant respiratory compromise in infants.
Following an apparent febrile seizure, a 4-year-old boy is alert and crying. His skin is hot and moist. Appropriate treatment for this child includes:
- A. allowing the parents to transport the child.
- B. offering oxygen and providing transport.
- C. rapidly cooling the child in cold water.
- D. keeping the child warm and providing transport.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: After a febrile seizure, it is important to offer oxygen and provide transport to a medical facility for further evaluation and management of the underlying cause. Oxygen may be needed in case of hypoxemia resulting from the seizure. Rapidly cooling the child in cold water is not recommended as it may lead to complications such as hypothermia. Keeping the child warm is also not advisable as the priority is to prevent hyperthermia and provide necessary medical intervention by healthcare providers.