Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Basic Certification Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Become a certified EMT!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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How many bones comprise the cervical spine?

The correct answer is: 7

The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae, designated as C1 through C7. These vertebrae are located in the neck region and are responsible for supporting the head, allowing for a range of motion, and protecting the spinal cord as it travels from the brain through the vertebral column. Each of these cervical vertebrae has distinct anatomical features that contribute to their function. For instance, the first vertebra, known as the atlas (C1), supports the skull and enables the nodding motion, while the second vertebra, the axis (C2), allows for the rotational movement of the head. This structure is crucial for many daily activities and supports the overall biomechanics of the human body. Other options do not reflect the correct number of cervical vertebrae; the human spine consists of other regions (thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal) that have their distinct vertebrae amounts, but they are not relevant to the structure of the cervical spine specifically. Understanding the composition of the cervical spine is essential for EMTs, as it helps them assess and manage neck and spinal injuries effectively.