Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

What condition is most likely if a patient wakes up with extreme shortness of breath and has a cardiac history?

1. Spontaneous embolism

2. Pulmonary edema

3. Pulmonary embolism

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Pulmonary edema

When a patient with a cardiac history wakes up with extreme shortness of breath, pulmonary edema is a likely condition to consider. This condition often results from congestive heart failure, which is common among individuals with cardiac issues. When the heart is unable to pump efficiently, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, leading to an immediate and severe feeling of breathlessness, especially noticeable upon waking. The sudden onset of symptoms aligns well with pulmonary edema, as this condition can acutely worsen due to postural changes when lying down overnight, increasing the pressure in the pulmonary circulation and leading to fluid leakage into the alveoli. Recognizing this condition is essential for prompt management, as it often requires immediate treatment to alleviate the fluid overload and improve respiratory function. In contrast, while conditions like pulmonary embolism or pneumonia can also cause shortness of breath, the acute and severe presentation associated with a pre-existing cardiac condition makes pulmonary edema the most fitting diagnosis in this scenario.