New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

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Study for the New York State Basic EMT-B Exam. Use multiple choice questions and flashcards with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for the exam!

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What is the most important action to take for a cyanotic patient with labored breathing?

Monitor oxygen levels
Administer oxygen as soon as possible
Call for advanced medical support
Reassure and calm the patient

The correct answer is: Administer oxygen as soon as possible

For a cyanotic patient experiencing labored breathing, administering oxygen as soon as possible is crucial because this condition indicates that the body is not receiving an adequate supply of oxygen, which can lead to serious complications if left unaddressed. Cyanosis, characterized by a bluish discoloration of the skin, particularly around the lips and fingertips, signals that the patient’s tissues are likely deprived of oxygen. Prompt oxygen administration can help to rapidly improve oxygen saturation levels in the blood, alleviating the urgency of the situation. It enhances the oxygen delivery to vital organs, which is essential to prevent further deterioration of the patient’s condition. While monitoring oxygen levels, calling for advanced medical support, and reassuring the patient are important aspects of patient care, they do not have the immediate urgency of ensuring adequate oxygenation. Monitoring levels and reassurance might be integrated into the overall care plan after the initial action of administering oxygen is taken.