EMT Certification Exam Questions and
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download
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1. The first step in patient assessment is:
A. Scene size-up
B. Primary survey
C. Vital signs
D. History taking
The scene must be assessed first to ensure safety before
approaching the patient.
2. The correct ratio of compressions to breaths for an adult in CPR is:
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 25:2
Current guidelines recommend 30 compressions followed by 2
breaths for adults.
3. The EMT arrives at a scene where a patient is unresponsive, not
breathing, and has no pulse. The next action should be:
A. Give rescue breaths only
B. Start CPR immediately
C. Apply oxygen via non-rebreather mask
D. Take a full history
, CPR must be initiated immediately in pulseless, unresponsive
patients.
4. Which of the following is the preferred method of airway
management for a patient with an obstructed airway who is
unconscious?
A. Nasopharyngeal airway
B. Oropharyngeal airway
C. Endotracheal tube
D. Suction only
An oropharyngeal airway is used for unconscious patients to
maintain airway patency.
5. During a primary assessment, the EMT notes that the patient has
cyanosis around the lips. This indicates:
A. Hyperventilation
B. Hypoxia
C. Hypoglycemia
D. Dehydration
Cyanosis is a sign of inadequate oxygenation in the blood.
6. Which of the following is the best indicator of adequate perfusion
in a responsive adult?
A. Skin color only
B. Level of consciousness
C. Respiratory rate only
D. Capillary refill time only
Level of consciousness reflects brain perfusion, which indicates
adequate blood flow.
7. The proper technique for controlling external bleeding is:
A. Elevation only
B. Direct pressure over the wound
, C. Cold compress
D. Tourniquet first
Direct pressure is the first and most effective method to control
bleeding.
8. A patient is having difficulty breathing and wheezing after
exposure to peanuts. The EMT should:
A. Give water
B. Administer epinephrine if available
C. Give aspirin
D. Place patient supine
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.
9. What is the main concern for a patient with a suspected spinal
injury?
A. Circulation
B. Airway and spinal immobilization
C. Pain management only
D. Bleeding
Maintaining spinal alignment is critical to prevent further
neurologic injury.
10. Which of the following is a sign of inadequate breathing?
A. Normal respiratory rate
B. Nasal flaring and retractions
C. Pink skin
D. Calm appearance
Use of accessory muscles and nasal flaring indicate respiratory
distress.
11. A patient presents with chest pain and shortness of breath.
The EMT should first:
A. Give water
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download
1. The first step in patient assessment is:
A. Scene size-up
B. Primary survey
C. Vital signs
D. History taking
The scene must be assessed first to ensure safety before
approaching the patient.
2. The correct ratio of compressions to breaths for an adult in CPR is:
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 25:2
Current guidelines recommend 30 compressions followed by 2
breaths for adults.
3. The EMT arrives at a scene where a patient is unresponsive, not
breathing, and has no pulse. The next action should be:
A. Give rescue breaths only
B. Start CPR immediately
C. Apply oxygen via non-rebreather mask
D. Take a full history
, CPR must be initiated immediately in pulseless, unresponsive
patients.
4. Which of the following is the preferred method of airway
management for a patient with an obstructed airway who is
unconscious?
A. Nasopharyngeal airway
B. Oropharyngeal airway
C. Endotracheal tube
D. Suction only
An oropharyngeal airway is used for unconscious patients to
maintain airway patency.
5. During a primary assessment, the EMT notes that the patient has
cyanosis around the lips. This indicates:
A. Hyperventilation
B. Hypoxia
C. Hypoglycemia
D. Dehydration
Cyanosis is a sign of inadequate oxygenation in the blood.
6. Which of the following is the best indicator of adequate perfusion
in a responsive adult?
A. Skin color only
B. Level of consciousness
C. Respiratory rate only
D. Capillary refill time only
Level of consciousness reflects brain perfusion, which indicates
adequate blood flow.
7. The proper technique for controlling external bleeding is:
A. Elevation only
B. Direct pressure over the wound
, C. Cold compress
D. Tourniquet first
Direct pressure is the first and most effective method to control
bleeding.
8. A patient is having difficulty breathing and wheezing after
exposure to peanuts. The EMT should:
A. Give water
B. Administer epinephrine if available
C. Give aspirin
D. Place patient supine
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.
9. What is the main concern for a patient with a suspected spinal
injury?
A. Circulation
B. Airway and spinal immobilization
C. Pain management only
D. Bleeding
Maintaining spinal alignment is critical to prevent further
neurologic injury.
10. Which of the following is a sign of inadequate breathing?
A. Normal respiratory rate
B. Nasal flaring and retractions
C. Pink skin
D. Calm appearance
Use of accessory muscles and nasal flaring indicate respiratory
distress.
11. A patient presents with chest pain and shortness of breath.
The EMT should first:
A. Give water
