North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by air under the skin?

1. Subcutaneous emphysema

2. Paresthesia

3. Numbness

4. Orthopnea

The correct answer is: Subcutaneous emphysema

Subcutaneous emphysema is characterized by the presence of air or gas beneath the skin, typically resulting from a rupture in the respiratory system or other air-containing structures. This condition can occur following chest trauma, surgery, or certain medical procedures, allowing air to escape into the surrounding tissues. The air accumulates in the subcutaneous tissue, leading to swelling and a characteristic crackling sensation when palpated, often described as "Crepitus." Understanding this condition is crucial for emergency responders as it can indicate underlying injuries that may require immediate medical attention, such as pneumothorax or significant trauma to the chest. The recognition of subcutaneous emphysema is important for appropriate evaluation and treatment in emergency situations. The other mentioned terms do not relate to the presence of air under the skin. Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling or prickling, numbness is the lack of sensation, and orthopnea describes difficulty breathing when lying flat. Each of these conditions involves different physiological mechanisms and is unrelated to subcutaneous air accumulation.