Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Elderly patients with diabetes commonly develop neuropathy, which predisposes them to what condition?

1. Atypical acute coronary syndrome

2. Chronic kidney disease

3. Peripheral vascular disease

4. Congestive heart failure

The correct answer is: Atypical acute coronary syndrome

Elderly patients with diabetes often experience diabetic neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves due to high blood sugar levels over time. This condition can lead to several complications, one of which is an increased risk for specific cardiovascular issues. However, in the context of this question, understanding the link between diabetes and neuropathy primarily relates to how these conditions affect the body's vascular system. Neuropathy can result in decreased sensation in the extremities, which may lead to unrecognized injuries, infections, and ultimately, complications that can hinder blood flow and healing. Although peripheral vascular disease is particularly linked with diabetes and often coexists with neuropathy due to similar risk factors like poor blood sugar control and hypertension, the risk here is more aligned with overall cardiovascular health. The predisposing condition asked in the question relates specifically to acute coronary syndromes, which are exacerbated in patients with both diabetes and neuropathy due to their increased likelihood of experiencing silent myocardial ischemia—where the patient does not feel the typical chest pain associated with a heart attack. The lack of pain perception can delay seeking treatment, leading to more severe outcomes from what might otherwise be a more controllable situation. In this regard, the correct connection here illustrates that diabetic neuropathy serves as a warning