New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What acute cardiovascular condition is caused by sudden blockage of coronary arteries?

1. Angina pectoris

2. Myocardial infarction

3. Stroke

4. Heart failure

The correct answer is: Myocardial infarction

The acute cardiovascular condition resulting from the sudden blockage of coronary arteries is myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. This condition occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is obstructed, often due to a blood clot that forms around a rupture in atherosclerotic plaque within the coronary arteries. The interruption of blood flow can cause significant damage to the heart muscle if it persists, leading to heart tissue death. Recognizing this specific condition is crucial for emergency medical responders because timely intervention can save heart muscle and improve outcomes for the patient. It is important to act quickly to restore blood flow, typically through medications or surgical procedures like angioplasty. Other conditions listed, such as angina pectoris, can cause chest pain but are typically not due to a complete blockage of blood flow; rather, they result from temporary decreases in blood supply to the heart. Stroke refers to a blockage of blood flow to the brain, while heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart cannot pump effectively but is not solely caused by an acute blockage of coronary arteries.