New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Which patient does NOT exhibit an altered mental status?

1. A patient with an acute allergic reaction and dizziness

2. A diabetic who opens his eyes when asked questions

3. A patient with a head injury who is slow to answer

4. A patient who overdosed and moans when touched

The correct answer is: A diabetic who opens his eyes when asked questions

The situation where the patient opens their eyes when asked questions indicates a level of consciousness and awareness that suggests they are oriented to some extent. While it cannot be assumed that this patient is cognitively normal or fully alert—because additional context about their responses and overall condition may be needed—the act of opening their eyes and responding to questions signifies that they exhibit a level of responsiveness that generally indicates an intact mental status. In contrast, the other patients described have more clear indicators of altered mental states. The patient with an acute allergic reaction may experience dizziness and confusion; the head injury patient who is slow to answer may exhibit signs of impaired cognitive function; and the patient who overdosed and only moans suggests a severely diminished level of responsiveness. Thus, the patient who opens their eyes to questions does not exhibit an altered mental status as clearly as the others do.