Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for your EMT Intermediate Test. Study with detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

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Following the administration of supplemental oxygen to a patient with altered mental status, what should be the next step?

Perform a rapid transport
Notify medical control
Perform a focused history and physical exam
Administer intravenous fluids

The correct answer is: Perform a focused history and physical exam

After administering supplemental oxygen to a patient with altered mental status, performing a focused history and physical exam is essential for several reasons. This step allows the EMT to gather critical information about the patient’s medical history, potential causes of their altered status, and any pertinent signs that could inform further treatment. Understanding the patient’s history, including existing medical conditions, medications, recent events, and potential exposures, can lead to identifying issues such as hypoxia, stroke, or drug intoxication. Furthermore, a focused physical examination helps assess vital signs, neurological function, and physical state, providing clues necessary for a thorough evaluation. This comprehensive approach ensures that the EMT can make informed decisions about subsequent interventions or transport decisions based on the patient's condition, needs, and any particularities indicated through the medical history and examination findings.