New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

In the case of a patient with severe vomiting and diarrhea presenting with confusion and absent radial pulses, what should be done after applying 100% supplemental oxygen?

1. Perform a head-to-toe exam

2. Allow him to drink plain water

3. Obtain a repeat blood pressure in 5 minutes

4. Prepare for immediate transport

The correct answer is: Prepare for immediate transport

In a situation involving a patient with severe vomiting and diarrhea who is presenting with confusion and absent radial pulses, the priority is to recognize the potential for shock and rapidly deteriorating condition. After administering 100% supplemental oxygen to address potential hypoxia due to reduced perfusion, the most important step is to prepare for immediate transport to a medical facility. When a patient exhibits confusion, it indicates possible altered mental status due to inadequate cerebral perfusion or dehydration, which is often associated with fluid and electrolyte imbalances from severe vomiting and diarrhea. The absence of radial pulses further suggests significant hypotension or cardiovascular instability, reinforcing the urgency to get the patient to advanced medical care, where they can receive the necessary interventions such as intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, and continuous monitoring. Performing a head-to-toe exam, while important in a complete assessment, would take time and delay critical interventions needed for a patient in such a precarious state. Likewise, allowing the patient to drink plain water is inappropriate; oral intake could pose risks, especially if the patient cannot safely swallow or has a decreased level of consciousness. Obtaining a repeat blood pressure in a short timeframe is helpful, but in this acute scenario, the priority is to have the patient transported to a facility where more