Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

In assessing a 72-year-old man with absent lung sounds and sharp chest pain, what statement by his wife is most significant?

1. "He has had a fever since last night."

2. "He has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease."

3. "He did not take his medications today."

4. "He just saw his doctor yesterday."

The correct answer is: "He has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease."

The statement made by the wife regarding the patient's chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is particularly significant in this clinical scenario. COPD is a progressive lung disease that can lead to various acute complications, including exacerbations that may affect lung sounds. In patients with COPD, symptoms can suddenly worsen, leading to respiratory distress and changes in lung auscultation findings, such as absent or diminished lung sounds. Given that the patient is 72 years old and presenting with sharp chest pain and absent lung sounds, having a history of COPD provides valuable context for the assessment. It suggests that the patient may be experiencing an exacerbation or another pulmonary issue related to his pre-existing condition. This information is crucial for prioritizing interventions and determining the most appropriate treatment pathways, as COPD can complicate respiratory evaluations and interventions. The other statements, while relevant, do not provide as direct insight into the respiratory status of the patient. Fever could indicate an infectious process, medication non-compliance may suggest inadequate management of his chronic condition, and a recent doctor's visit could be relevant but does not specifically relate to his current presentation. Understanding the presence of COPD helps to inform the responder's approach to managing his current symptoms effectively.