Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What position of comfort is recommended for someone experiencing anaphylactic shock?

1. Supine position

2. Modified Trendelenburg position

3. Sitting position

4. Left lateral position

The correct answer is: Modified Trendelenburg position

In cases of anaphylactic shock, the modified Trendelenburg position is the recommended position of comfort. This position involves lying the patient flat on their back with their legs elevated. Elevating the legs helps improve venous return to the heart, which can be beneficial in counteracting the effects of the severe drop in blood pressure characteristic of anaphylaxis. This position can help maintain adequate blood flow to essential organs during anaphylactic shock, thereby supporting critical cardiovascular function. While other positions may have their uses in different medical situations, the modified Trendelenburg position allows for a more effective response to the rapid onset of symptoms associated with anaphylaxis. It assists in managing potential hypoperfusion and provides a slight alleviation of respiratory distress, as it helps keep the airway more open when the patient is in a somewhat supine state with leg elevation. Other positions, such as the supine position, may not provide the same benefits in terms of blood flow and can potentially worsen blood pressure if there is significant shock. The sitting position could be helpful for breathing but is less effective for improving circulation in cases of anaphylactic shock, whereas the left lateral position, while useful in certain situations like protecting the airway in unconscious patients, does not specifically address