Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

Palpitations, disorientation, and panic are symptoms of?

1. Delayed stress

2. Acute stress

3. Cumulative stress

4. Repetitive stress

The correct answer is: Acute stress

Palpitations, disorientation, and panic are indicative of acute stress, which is characterized by a sudden onset of anxiety and physical symptoms in response to an immediate threat or overwhelming situation. When someone experiences acute stress, the body enters a "fight or flight" mode, leading to physiological changes such as increased heart rate (palpitations), heightened awareness or confusion (disorientation), and feelings of impending doom or fear (panic). This response is often seen in situations that provoke intense fear or anxiety, such as traumatic events or emergencies, aligning with the symptoms presented in the question. Understanding the nature of acute stress is crucial for AEMTs, as recognizing these symptoms can guide appropriate interventions and management strategies to support individuals experiencing these distressing sensations. In contrast, other types of stress, such as delayed stress, cumulative stress, or repetitive stress, involve different timelines and manifestations of stress that do not directly lead to the specific acute symptoms described. Delayed stress often occurs after a traumatic event and may be presented later, cumulative stress develops over a longer period from ongoing pressures, and repetitive stress generally pertains to physical strain rather than emotional turmoil.