Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

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Prepare for your EMT Test with flashcards and practice questions. Each question includes explanations. Test your knowledge and get ready for your EMT exam!

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What are the side effects of epinephrine?

Anxiety
Chest pain
Headache
Vomiting

The correct answer is: Vomiting

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is a powerful medication commonly used in emergency situations, particularly for anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest. It works by stimulating the heart, dilating the airways, and increasing blood flow to vital organs. Among the various side effects of epinephrine, vomiting can occur due to its stimulating effects on the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. This can happen because epinephrine increases heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to feelings of nausea and resulting in vomiting. The other side effects listed are also possible reactions. Anxiety is a common response due to the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to increased alertness and feelings of panic. Chest pain may occur because of increased myocardial oxygen demand, and headaches can result from changes in blood flow or blood pressure. Each of these reactions represents a different aspect of how epinephrine affects the body, but vomiting stands out in this context as a significant gastrointestinal side effect.