What should be assessed in a patient who has recently experienced a seizure and has a history of diabetes?

Study for the West Coast EMT Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Be prepared and confident for your exam!

Monitoring the airway and breathing, as well as assessing the blood glucose level, is crucial in this scenario because the patient has experienced a seizure and has a history of diabetes. After a seizure, patients may experience altered consciousness, making it vital to ensure their airway remains clear. Compromised respiratory function can lead to inadequate oxygenation, which is critical to assess in any postictal state.

In addition to maintaining airway patency and monitoring breathing, checking blood glucose is essential for a diabetic patient, especially after a seizure. Seizures can be caused by hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and a rapid assessment of blood glucose will help determine the appropriate treatment. If the blood sugar is low, prompt action can prevent further complications.

The other options provided do not adequately address these critical concerns of airway protection and blood glucose monitoring, which are central to safe and effective management in the postictal phase of a seizure, especially considering the patient's diabetic history.

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