Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Basic Certification Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions; each question includes hints and explanations. Ensure your success!

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What blood glucose level indicates hypoglycemia?

200 mg/dL
160 mg/dL
50 mg/dL
100 mg/dL

The correct answer is: 50 mg/dL

Hypoglycemia is defined as a condition where blood glucose levels drop below normal. The generally accepted threshold for hypoglycemia in adults is a blood glucose level of less than 70 mg/dL. In this case, a blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL clearly indicates hypoglycemia, as it is significantly below the normal range, which typically falls between 70 mg/dL and 130 mg/dL depending on when the last meal was consumed. The other values provided would be considered within the normal or hyperglycemic range. For instance, blood glucose levels of 100 mg/dL and 160 mg/dL are within normal limits or indicative of possible prediabetes, while 200 mg/dL exceeds the normal threshold and suggests hyperglycemia, which is a elevated blood sugar condition. Therefore, understanding the normal ranges for blood glucose is vital for correctly identifying hypoglycemia.