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 side of heart failure is associated with pulmonary embolism?

Left sided heart failure
Right sided heart failure
Bilateral heart failure
Cor pulmonale

The correct answer is: Right sided heart failure

Right-sided heart failure is directly associated with conditions such as pulmonary embolism. When a pulmonary embolism occurs, it obstructs blood flow to the lungs, leading to increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries. This added pressure makes it difficult for the right side of the heart to pump blood effectively through the lungs. In response to the obstructed blood flow, the right ventricle may become overworked and eventually fail, known as right-sided heart failure. As a result, this condition can cause symptoms such as fluid accumulation, which can lead to peripheral edema and other complications. Understanding the physiology behind this relationship is essential, as it clarifies how cardiovascular issues interact with respiratory conditions. Other types of heart failure, like left-sided or bilateral heart failure, are generally more related to systemic circulation or conditions affecting the left ventricle specifically, rather than the direct implication of a blockage in the pulmonary circulation seen in right-sided heart failure due to pulmonary embolism. Cor pulmonale, while related to right heart failure, specifically refers to right heart failure resulting from chronic lung disease and is not the primary association with acute pulmonary embolism.