North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Prepare for the North Carolina EMT State Exam with interactive quizzes and comprehensive explanations. Master your skills and gain confidence by reviewing key topics before test day!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What distinctive breath odor may be present in patients with DKA?

Foul breath
Sweet breath
Rotten breath
Minty breath

The correct answer is: Sweet breath

In patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the breath often has a distinctive sweet odor. This scent is primarily due to the presence of ketones—specifically acetone, which is one of the byproducts of fat metabolism that occurs when insulin levels are low and the body is unable to utilize glucose effectively. As fat is broken down for energy, ketones accumulate in the bloodstream and are expelled through respiration. The sweet odor can be a key clinical indicator for healthcare providers and can help in promptly identifying DKA, allowing for swift intervention to address the condition. Recognizing this characteristic symptom is vital for emergency medical technicians and health professionals when assessing a patient with suspected DKA.