Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Basic Certification Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with detailed hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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Which of the following is an indication for administering nitroglycerin?

Coughing spells
Cardiac chest pain
High blood sugar
Severe headache

The correct answer is: Cardiac chest pain

Administering nitroglycerin is indicated primarily for cardiac chest pain, particularly in the context of angina or myocardial infarction. Nitroglycerin works by dilating blood vessels, which reduces the workload of the heart and improves blood flow to areas that may not be receiving enough oxygen due to a blockage or reduced perfusion. When a patient presents with symptoms of chest pain that are consistent with cardiac issues, nitroglycerin can be an effective treatment option to alleviate discomfort and potentially improve the patient's overall condition. The other options do not warrant the use of nitroglycerin. Coughing spells are typically indicative of respiratory issues rather than a cardiovascular condition. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is related to diabetes and does not involve the use of nitroglycerin. Similarly, a severe headache may suggest various other conditions, such as migraines or tension headaches, which also do not require nitroglycerin as a treatment. Thus, the administration of nitroglycerin is specifically aimed at addressing the underlying cardiac problems manifested as chest pain.