New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Hemoptysis is specifically defined as which of the following?

1. Vomiting blood

2. Coughing up blood

3. Abnormal blood clotting

4. Blood in the pleural space

The correct answer is: Coughing up blood

Hemoptysis is specifically defined as the act of coughing up blood that originates from the respiratory tract. This can occur due to various underlying conditions, such as infections, trauma, or vascular issues affecting the lungs. It is important to differentiate it from other terms: for instance, while vomiting blood is known as hematemesis, it indicates gastrointestinal bleeding rather than issues within the respiratory system. Abnormal blood clotting refers to coagulation disorders that impact how blood thins or clots, without necessarily involving the act of coughing. Blood in the pleural space, known as hemothorax, occurs specifically around the lungs but does not relate directly to the act of coughing. Thus, the definition of hemoptysis focuses solely on the expulsion of blood through coughing from the lungs or bronchial tubes.