Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What condition is associated with dark red blood in feces?

1. Hematochezia

2. Melena

3. Ecchymosis

4. Hematomachia

The correct answer is: Melena

The condition associated with dark red blood in feces is hematochezia. This term specifically refers to the passage of fresh, red blood from the rectum, which often indicates bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract, such as from hemorrhoids or diverticulosis. It is important to differentiate this from melena, which typically refers to dark, tarry stools caused by upper gastrointestinal bleeding, where the blood has been digested, resulting in a darker appearance. Hematochezia not only indicates fresh bleeding but suggests that the bleeding source is relatively close to the anus, leading to minimal digestion of the blood before it is expelled. Understanding the significance of color and consistency in fecal matter is crucial in emergency medical situations, as it aids in identifying the location and potential cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. In assessing conditions like ecchymosis, which refers to bruising or discoloration of the skin due to bleeding underneath, and hematomachia is less commonly used but typically describes bright red blood in the stool, hematochezia remains the most precise term to describe dark red blood in feces. This understanding helps EMTs provide accurate information to medical personnel for diagnosis and treatment.