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

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Study for the New York State EMT-B Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Boost your readiness for your exam!

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What does "distal" mean in anatomical terms?

  1. Away from the point of attachment

  2. Toward the midline

  3. Closer to the point of attachment

  4. Back

The correct answer is: Away from the point of attachment

In anatomical terms, "distal" refers to a position that is farther away from the point of attachment of a limb or organ to the body. This term is commonly used in contrast to "proximal," which indicates a position that is closer to the point of attachment. For example, when discussing the arm, the hand is considered distal to the elbow because it is further away from the attachment of the arm to the torso. Understanding these directional terms is essential for accurate communication in medical and anatomical contexts, as they help describe the location of structures in relation to each other.