Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Test with focused study methods including flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Practice with hints and detailed explanations to boost your readiness for the exam.

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How does cortisol function in the body?

It lowers blood glucose levels
It acts as a stress hormone
It promotes growth
It regulates red blood cell production

The correct answer is: It acts as a stress hormone

Cortisol is known as a stress hormone because it plays a critical role in the body's response to stress. When the body is faced with a stressful situation, cortisol is released from the adrenal glands, particularly during the fight-or-flight response. This hormone helps to prepare the body to deal with stress by increasing blood sugar levels, enhancing brain function, and boosting the immune response while also regulating various other bodily functions. While cortisol does influence blood glucose levels, its primary role in stress response is not to lower them but rather to raise them to provide immediate energy. It does not have a direct role in promoting growth or regulating red blood cell production, as those functions are more closely associated with hormones like erythropoietin and growth hormone. Therefore, understanding cortisol as a stress hormone is essential in recognizing its multifaceted influences on metabolism and bodily functions, particularly in the context of acute stress.