Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which of the following interventions would be of least benefit to a patient with respiratory distress?

1. IV therapy with up to a 500 mL normal saline bolus

2. Administering bronchodilators

3. Providing supplemental oxygen

4. Utilizing positive pressure ventilation

The correct answer is: IV therapy with up to a 500 mL normal saline bolus

In patients experiencing respiratory distress, the primary goal of treatment is to ensure adequate oxygen delivery and improve respiratory function. Administering IV therapy, such as a normal saline bolus, is generally not a direct intervention aimed at alleviating respiratory distress, which is primarily related to airway obstruction, lung function, or gas exchange issues. While hydration may be important for overall health, it does not specifically address the immediate needs of a patient struggling to breathe. In contrast, administering bronchodilators helps open up narrowed airways, providing immediate symptomatic relief in conditions like asthma or COPD. Providing supplemental oxygen assists in correcting hypoxia and ensuring that the patient receives adequate oxygenation. Positive pressure ventilation can significantly aid in cases where the patient is unable to breathe effectively on their own, such as in severe cases of respiratory failure. Thus, although intravenous fluids can play a role in overall patient care, they do not provide the immediate relief needed for someone in respiratory distress, making this intervention of least benefit in that specific context.