New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

In a case of a 73-year-old female experiencing a syncopal episode, what should you be most suspicious of?

1. An aortic aneurysm

2. Acute appendicitis

3. A strangulated bowel

4. Myocardial infarction

The correct answer is: An aortic aneurysm

In this scenario, where a 73-year-old female has experienced a syncopal episode, it is important to consider the potential causes associated with this symptom, particularly in an older patient. Syncopal episodes, which involve a brief loss of consciousness or fainting, can often be related to cardiovascular issues. An aortic aneurysm is particularly relevant because it can lead to significant blood loss or a sudden drop in blood pressure, both of which may provoke fainting or syncope. In an elderly patient, the risk factors for an aortic aneurysm include age and other cardiovascular conditions, making it a critical condition to consider. While myocardial infarction can also cause syncopal episodes, it is not as directly related to a loss of consciousness as an aortic aneurysm, which can cause catastrophic changes in the hemodynamic stability of the patient. Acute appendicitis and a strangulated bowel are less likely to present primarily with syncope, as they typically manifest more with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms rather than directly affecting the cardiovascular system to that degree. Identifying the most critical and likely cause of syncope in this elder patient context emphasizes the suspicion of an aortic aneurysm. Prompt recognition is crucial, as this condition requires immediate medical intervention to