Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a common sign of epiglottitis?

1. Difficulty swallowing

2. Fever

3. Rash

4. Stridor

The correct answer is: Rash

The correct choice reflects that a rash is not a common sign of epiglottitis. Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the epiglottis, usually caused by infection, which can lead to significant airway obstruction. The hallmark signs of epiglottitis generally include difficulty swallowing, fever, and stridor. Difficulty swallowing occurs due to the swelling of the epiglottis and surrounding tissues, making the act of swallowing painful and challenging. Fever is often present as the body responds to the infection. Stridor, a high-pitched wheezing sound, is another characteristic sign that indicates turbulent airflow through a narrowed airway, commonly seen in cases of epiglottitis. While rashes can be associated with infections or other medical conditions, they are not typical indicators of epiglottitis specifically. Therefore, recognizing that a rash is not a usual sign helps in differentiating epiglottitis from other conditions that may cause rashes. This knowledge is crucial for EMTs in assessing patients and providing appropriate care.