AEMCA Practice Exam

What are common signs of a hemothorax?

1. Severe SOB and low blood pressure

2. Rash and fever

3. Chest pain and restlessness

4. High blood pressure and bradycardia

The correct answer is: Severe SOB and low blood pressure

The correct choice identifies classic signs of a hemothorax, which is a condition involving bleeding into the pleural cavity. Severe shortness of breath (SOB) occurs because the accumulation of blood in the thoracic cavity can compress the lung, reducing its capacity to expand and hinder effective gas exchange. Low blood pressure can result from significant blood loss, leading to hypovolemia and shock. These symptoms indicate a serious medical situation that requires immediate attention. The other options present symptoms that are not typically associated with a hemothorax. Rash and fever might suggest an infection or other systemic issues, which are not characteristic of a hemothorax specifically. Chest pain and restlessness could be experienced, but they are more general and not exclusive indicators of this condition. High blood pressure and bradycardia do not align with the physiological responses commonly seen in hemothorax; typically, you would expect tachycardia (increased heart rate) as the body tries to compensate for low blood pressure resulting from blood loss.