Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

During the assessment of a patient with an allergic reaction, what should your focus be on?

1. Respiratory system and mental status

2. Circulatory system, mental status, and skin

3. Respiratory system, circulation, mental status, and skin

4. Skin and respiratory symptoms only

The correct answer is: Respiratory system, circulation, mental status, and skin

Focusing on the respiratory system, circulation, mental status, and skin is crucial during the assessment of a patient experiencing an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, which is a severe and life-threatening condition that affects multiple body systems. The respiratory system must be assessed because allergic reactions can cause swelling of the airways, bronchoconstriction, and difficulty breathing. Monitoring respiratory status ensures that any airway compromise is identified and addressed quickly. Circulation is also essential to evaluate, as an allergic reaction can cause vasodilation and may lead to hypotension and shock. Assessing circulation allows the responder to determine if the patient is perfusing adequately, which is vital for maintaining organ function. Mental status assessment is important to evaluate the patient's level of consciousness, as altered mental status can indicate inadequate perfusion or oxygenation to the brain and requires prompt intervention. Lastly, skin assessment provides insight into the severity of the allergic reaction. Symptoms like hives, swelling, or flushing can indicate systemic involvement and help delineate the severity of the reaction. This comprehensive approach ensures that all critical aspects are monitored, allowing for timely and appropriate interventions.