Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia that a person may exhibit?

1. dehydration; some insulin is being produced so some glucose is getting to cells therefore there is no large ketone buildup; NO Kussmaul's respirations or fruity breath

2. active trendelenburg

3. modified trendelenburg

4. hunger, weakness, salivation, dilated pupils; tachycardia

The correct answer is: hunger, weakness, salivation, dilated pupils; tachycardia

The correct answer reflects a clear understanding of the physiological responses associated with hypoglycemia, which occurs when blood glucose levels drop significantly. Individuals experiencing hypoglycemia typically exhibit symptoms such as hunger, weakness, excessive salivation, dilated pupils, and tachycardia (an increased heart rate). The hunger is often a direct response to low glucose levels, as the body signals the need for energy. Weakness occurs due to insufficient glucose supply to the body's cells, particularly in muscle tissues. Excessive salivation can happen as the body becomes distressed, and dilated pupils are a sympathetic nervous response indicating the body is in a state of heightened alertness. Finally, tachycardia arises because the body tries to compensate for the low energy levels by increasing heart rate to ensure better distribution of the limited glucose available. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe symptoms of hypoglycemia. For example, dehydration and potential lack of ketone buildup pertains more to certain types of diabetes than to acute hypoglycemic events. Similarly, Trendelenburg positions (both active and modified) are not relevant to the symptomatology of hypoglycemia; they serve different purposes in managing shock and other medical conditions.