Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

A 57-year-old female with a history of peripheral vascular disease presents with confusion and hemiparesis. What condition should be suspected?

1. Arterial blockage in the right cerebral hemisphere

2. Intracerebral hemorrhage

3. Hypoglycemia

4. Acute coronary syndrome

The correct answer is: Arterial blockage in the right cerebral hemisphere

In this scenario, the patient exhibits confusion and hemiparesis, which are both classic symptoms associated with a stroke. Given her history of peripheral vascular disease, there is an increased likelihood of cardiovascular issues, such as arterial blockages leading to reduced blood flow to the brain. The first choice, which identifies an arterial blockage in the right cerebral hemisphere, is particularly relevant because hemiparesis is often the result of a stroke that affects one side of the brain. If there is a blockage in the arteries supplying the right hemisphere, it would lead to neurological deficits on the left side of the body, which is consistent with the patient experiencing hemiparesis. Additionally, the confusion could indicate cerebral dysfunction due to impaired perfusion from the blockage. Other conditions such as intracerebral hemorrhage could also present with similar symptoms, but they are less likely given the specific context of her vascular history. Hypoglycemia can result in confusion but would not typically cause hemiparesis. Acute coronary syndrome, while potentially causing significant symptoms, would not directly explain the neurological deficits observed here. Thus, the most fitting condition to suspect in this patient, taking into account her age, symptoms, and medical history, is an arterial blockage in the right cerebral hemisphere.