Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Utilize multiple choice questions with detailed explanations and hints. Get the confidence you need to pass your exam and advance your career in emergency medical services!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What are potential side effects of epinephrine?

Hypotension and bradycardia
Tachycardia and hypertension
Hypoglycemia and diaphoresis
Coughing and wheezing

The correct answer is: Tachycardia and hypertension

Epinephrine acts as a powerful sympathomimetic agent, primarily stimulating alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors. This activation leads to a range of physiological effects. The increase in heart rate and strength of heart contractions is primarily mediated by beta-1 adrenergic receptor stimulation, which results in tachycardia. Additionally, the stimulation of alpha-adrenergic receptors causes vasoconstriction, which can increase blood pressure, thereby leading to hypertension. These effects are significant in medical emergencies, such as anaphylactic shock, where epinephrine is often administered to improve cardiovascular status and bronchodilation. While other options may represent possible effects or other conditions, tachycardia and hypertension are the most common and expected side effects associated with epinephrine administration, particularly during critical care scenarios. Understanding these effects is crucial for EMS providers when evaluating a patient's response to treatment and planning further management.