Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

During respiratory failure in pediatric patients, which symptom may be observed?

1. Abundant energy

2. Bradycardia

3. Normal breathing

4. Improved muscle tone

The correct answer is: Bradycardia

Bradycardia is a known symptom that can occur during respiratory failure in pediatric patients. In children, the heart rate may decrease in response to hypoxia, which is a lack of adequate oxygen supply in the body. When the respiratory system fails to deliver enough oxygen, it can lead to cardiovascular complications, including bradycardia. This is a compensatory response by the body in an attempt to maintain cardiac output when oxygen levels are critically low. In contrast, the other symptoms listed, such as abundant energy, normal breathing, and improved muscle tone, do not align with observations typically associated with respiratory failure. Rather, respiratory failure often presents with decreased energy levels, abnormal breathing patterns, and can lead to diminished muscle tone as oxygen levels drop and the body prioritizes vital functions.