Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What is pericardial tamponade?

1. Heartburn sensation

2. Fluid accumulation in the lungs

3. Impeded heart by fluid in the pericardium

4. Swelling of the heart muscle

The correct answer is: Impeded heart by fluid in the pericardium

Pericardial tamponade refers to a serious medical condition where fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac surrounding the heart. This accumulation exerts pressure on the heart, which can impede its ability to pump blood effectively. The constriction caused by the excess fluid leads to decreased cardiac output and can result in symptoms such as low blood pressure, shortness of breath, and potential shock. Understanding this condition is critical for emergency medical technicians, as it requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent life-threatening complications. The other choices, while related to heart and respiratory issues, do not accurately describe the specific nature of pericardial tamponade. Each of them represents different medical concerns not linked to the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial space, highlighting why the correct response centers on the obstruction of cardiac function due to fluid pressure in the pericardium.