Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What is a pulmonary embolism?

1. Obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries

2. A condition characterized by excessive coughing

3. Inflammation of the bronchi

4. Fluid accumulation in the lungs

The correct answer is: Obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries

A pulmonary embolism is defined as the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries, typically caused by a blood clot that travels to the lung from the legs or other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis). This blockage impairs blood flow to the lung tissue, leading to decreased oxygen levels in the blood and potentially causing harm to sensitive lung tissues. The severity of a pulmonary embolism can vary, ranging from mild cases that may resolve without significant issues to life-threatening emergencies that require immediate medical intervention. In contrast, excessive coughing is not central to the definition of a pulmonary embolism; rather, it may be a symptom resulting from various lung conditions. Inflammation of the bronchi refers to bronchitis, which also does not indicate an obstruction in blood flow but rather a condition affecting the airways. Fluid accumulation in the lungs is characteristic of pulmonary edema, which typically occurs in different circumstances, such as heart failure or lung injury, rather than as a direct consequence of a pulmonary embolism. Understanding pulmonary embolism in the context of blood flow obstruction allows for the identification of the associated symptoms and urgent care needs of patients experiencing this critical condition.