Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

Which choice best describes patients experiencing anaphylaxis?

1. They rarely show physical symptoms

2. They often require hospitalization for mild reactions

3. They can have severe and rapid respiratory distress

4. They typically show skin irritation only

The correct answer is: They can have severe and rapid respiratory distress

Patients experiencing anaphylaxis can indeed suffer from severe and rapid respiratory distress. This condition is a severe allergic reaction that can escalate quickly, often within minutes of exposure to the allergen. One of the hallmark symptoms of anaphylaxis is difficulty breathing, which can manifest as wheezing, stridor, or airway swelling, leading to significant respiratory compromise. The rapid onset of these respiratory issues is critical, as it can become life-threatening if not treated immediately, usually with epinephrine. Other symptoms often accompanying anaphylaxis may include hives, swelling of the face and throat, gastrointestinal distress, and cardiovascular problems, but the respiratory issues are particularly urgent and characteristic of this severe allergic reaction. Understanding the immediacy and severity of respiratory distress in anaphylaxis is essential for effective emergency management.