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

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the New York State EMT-B Exam. Study using flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and comprehensive explanations for each question. Get ready to ace your exam!

Practice this question and more.

What does a sunken fontanelle in an infant indicate?

Normal hydration status
Intracranial pressure
Dehydration
Airway obstruction

The correct answer is: Dehydration

A sunken fontanelle in an infant is a key indicator that points to dehydration. The fontanelles, which are the soft spots on an infant's skull, normally appear flat or slightly bulging when the child is well-hydrated. However, when hydration levels drop, the body's ability to retain fluid can result in a sunken appearance of these areas, reflecting a lack of adequate fluid volume. Dehydration can occur due to various reasons, such as illness, diarrhea, vomiting, or insufficient fluid intake. In infants, this condition can quickly lead to more severe health issues, making recognition of a sunken fontanelle crucial. Monitoring fontanelles is a common practice in pediatric assessments as they offer important clues regarding an infant's fluid status and overall health.