Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

If a patient is vomiting green or yellow bile after consuming an excessively fatty meal, what condition might they be experiencing?

1. Gastritis

2. Cholecystitis

3. Pancreatitis

4. Appendicitis

The correct answer is: Cholecystitis

The correct answer relates to cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder. This condition often presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes vomiting green or yellow bile — a sign that the stomach is emptying its contents, including bile from the duodenum, due to irritation or obstruction. In the context of consuming an excessively fatty meal, the gallbladder is tasked with releasing bile to aid in the digestion of fats. If there are issues such as gallstones or inflammation, the gallbladder may not function effectively, leading to the retention of bile and the potential for it to back up and be vomited. The appearance of green or yellow bile points to the presence of bile acids, indicating a problem in the digestive system related to bile production or secretion. Other conditions listed can cause nausea and vomiting but do not typically present with bile of this color post-fatty meals. Gastritis involves irritation or inflammation of the stomach lining and may not cause bile vomiting. Pancreatitis, causing severe abdominal pain, can lead to vomiting but is associated more with different colors depending on the severity and nature of the condition. Appendicitis results in abdominal pain and potential vomiting, but again, it’s not