North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

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!

Practice this question and more.

What is a common prescribed inhaler type known for causing tachycardia?

MDI
SPACER
NEBULIZER
SVN

The correct answer is: MDI

Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) are commonly prescribed for conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They deliver a precise dose of medication, most often bronchodilators, directly to the lungs. Some of these bronchodilators, particularly beta-agonists, can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to a side effect known as tachycardia, or an increased heart rate. This effect occurs because beta-agonists can bind to beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, which can cause the heart to beat faster. This is an important consideration for EMTs and healthcare providers when administering these medications, as it can inform patient monitoring and education regarding potential side effects. Inhalation devices like spacers, nebulizers, or small-volume nebulizers (SVNs) do not inherently cause tachycardia in the same way, as they are delivery systems rather than specific medications themselves. While they can also deliver beta-agonists, the method and the medication used play crucial roles in the side effect profile experienced by the patient. Understanding the mechanism of inhalers and their side effects is essential for effective treatment and patient care.