Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

A 67-year-old male with a heavy smoking history presents with a productive cough and weakness. What condition is he most likely experiencing?

1. Chronic bronchitis

2. Pneumonia

3. Acute bronchospasm

4. Pulmonary embolism

The correct answer is: Pneumonia

The signs and symptoms presented in the scenario suggest that the patient is most likely experiencing chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a productive cough that lasts for an extended period and is often associated with a history of smoking. In this case, the patient’s age and heavy smoking history further support this diagnosis. The productive cough indicates the presence of mucus production and difficulty clearing airways, which are hallmark indicators of chronic bronchitis rather than conditions like pneumonia or acute bronchospasm. Additionally, the weakness noted can result from the body’s ongoing struggle to breathe effectively due to airflow obstruction. While pneumonia can also present with a cough, it typically involves fever, chills, and potential consolidation sounds upon auscultation, which are not mentioned here. Acute bronchospasm generally involves sudden onset difficulty breathing without pre-existing chronic symptoms, and pulmonary embolism usually presents with sudden onset of breathlessness and chest pain, often without a chronic cough. Given these factors, the patient's profile is most consistent with chronic bronchitis, a common condition among individuals with significant smoking histories.