Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Epinephrine is primarily indicated for the treatment of severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis. In cases of anaphylaxis, the body reacts to an allergen with a severe immune response that can lead to life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a drop in blood pressure. Epinephrine acts as a vasoconstrictor, helping to increase blood pressure, and it also relaxes the muscles in the airway, allowing the patient to breathe more easily. Additionally, it helps to inhibit further release of allergic mediators from mast cells and basophils.

While hypoglycemia, chronic bronchitis, and cardiac arrest are significant medical conditions, they do not warrant the primary use of epinephrine. Hypoglycemia requires glucose administration, chronic bronchitis may need bronchodilators or corticosteroids, and cardiac arrest often involves different protocols such as CPR and defibrillation rather than stand-alone use of epinephrine, although it can be utilized in specific scenarios.