Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which condition is most likely indicated by profound cyanosis and unresponsiveness in a patient with a history of hypertension?

1. Cardiac arrest

2. Aortic dissection

3. Massive pulmonary embolism

4. Myocardial infarction

The correct answer is: Massive pulmonary embolism

Profound cyanosis and unresponsiveness in a patient, particularly one with a history of hypertension, suggest a critical state involving significant impairment of oxygen delivery to the body. Among the provided conditions, a massive pulmonary embolism is particularly indicative of such symptoms. In a massive pulmonary embolism, a large clot obstructs blood flow in the pulmonary arteries, leading to a sudden decrease in oxygen saturation and subsequent hypoxia. This can rapidly result in cyanosis, as the body's tissues and organs are deprived of oxygen. The unresponsiveness occurs due to inadequate blood flow to the brain, causing a loss of consciousness. While cardiac arrest, aortic dissection, and myocardial infarction could also lead to severe symptoms, the specific combination of profound cyanosis and unresponsiveness strongly aligns with the acute and critical nature of a massive pulmonary embolism, especially in a patient with hypertension who may have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions that increase the risk of such an event.