North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

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Study for the North Carolina EMT Exam with our engaging resources. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions designed to help you grasp critical concepts with hints and explanations. Ace your examination and take the first step towards a rewarding career in emergency medical services!

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What term describes a clot that travels in the bloodstream?

Embolus
Thrombus
Fluid
Sediment

The correct answer is: Embolus

An embolus is defined as a clot or other material that travels through the bloodstream and can lodge in a blood vessel, leading to potential complications such as obstruction of blood flow, which can result in serious medical conditions like a stroke or pulmonary embolism. This is important for EMTs to understand, as recognizing the signs and symptoms of embolic events can be critical for prompt intervention and treatment. In contrast, a thrombus refers to a clot that forms and remains in the blood vessel where it is created, rather than traveling through the bloodstream. Fluid and sediment do not specifically refer to clots or clot-related terminology in the medical context. Understanding the difference between an embolus and a thrombus is essential in emergency medical situations, where knowing how clots behave can influence treatment decisions.