Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What is a prevalent result of red blood cells breaking down faster than normal during a hemolytic crisis?

1. Increased blood pressure

2. Acute drop in hemoglobin level

3. Respiratory distress

4. Elevated glucose levels

The correct answer is: Acute drop in hemoglobin level

During a hemolytic crisis, red blood cells are destroyed at an accelerated rate, leading to a significant reduction in the overall hemoglobin concentration in the bloodstream. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body. As red blood cells are broken down, the supply of hemoglobin diminishes, resulting in an acute drop in hemoglobin levels. This drop impacts the body's ability to effectively carry oxygen, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, pallor, and potentially more severe complications if not managed promptly. While factors like increased blood pressure, respiratory distress, or elevated glucose levels may sometimes be observed in various medical conditions, they are not direct or prevalent consequences of the specific process occurring during a hemolytic crisis. The primary and most immediate effect is indeed the acute drop in hemoglobin level due to the rapid destruction of red blood cells. This understanding is essential for recognizing and responding to the physiological changes that occur in a patient experiencing a hemolytic crisis.