Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

How would you describe whooping cough?

1. Causes chest pain; low-grade fever; rhinitis; wheezing

2. Upper airway infection; progresses to pneumonia; highly contagious

3. Induces sneezing fits; sore throat; facial swelling

4. Causes abdominal pain; constipation; urinary urgency

The correct answer is: Upper airway infection; progresses to pneumonia; highly contagious

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It primarily affects the upper airway, leading to severe coughing fits that can be followed by a whoop sound when the person breathes in. As the disease progresses, it can cause significant complications like pneumonia, especially in infants and young children. The characteristic nature of whooping cough being highly contagious is crucial, as it spreads easily through respiratory droplets. This makes understanding its contagious nature fundamental for preventing outbreaks, especially in community settings like schools. The other options describe symptoms or conditions that do not accurately represent whooping cough. While some may refer to respiratory issues, they do not capture the unique infection and progression associated with whooping cough. Thus, identifying it as an upper airway infection that can escalate to pneumonia emphasizes both its critical traits and the importance of understanding its impact on respiratory health.