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!

Practice this question and more.

What is the primary cause of emphysema?

Airway obstruction
Surfactant destruction and increased alveolar surface tension
Allergic reactions to environmental pollutants
Chronic infections

The correct answer is: Surfactant destruction and increased alveolar surface tension

The primary cause of emphysema is related to surfectant destruction and increased alveolar surface tension, which leads to the breakdown of the alveolar walls. This process reduces the surface area available for gas exchange and causes the alveoli to become less elastic. As a result, the lung tissue loses its structural integrity, making it difficult for individuals to breathe effectively. Increased surface tension from the destruction of surfactant can exacerbate this issue by causing the alveoli to collapse, further impairing oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. Understanding emphysema also involves recognizing that while other factors, such as airway obstruction, chronic infections, and allergic reactions to pollutants, can contribute to respiratory issues, the specific mechanism of surfactant destruction and the resulting surface tension is central to the pathophysiology of emphysema. This knowledge is crucial for EMTs since it informs their approach to assessment and management of patients presenting with respiratory distress related to this condition.