Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by seal bark and stridor occurring at night?

1. Croup

2. Epiglottitis

3. Asthma

4. Bronchiolitis

The correct answer is: Croup

Croup, also known as laryngotracheobronchitis, is a condition that typically affects children and is characterized by a distinctive "seal bark" cough and stridor, particularly at night. This condition usually arises due to viral infections that cause inflammation of the upper airway, leading to narrowing and obstruction. The "seal bark" cough is specific to croup because it results from the swelling around the vocal cords and upper airway, producing a sound similar to a seal barking. Stridor, a high-pitched wheezing sound that occurs when breathing in, further indicates the obstruction in the airway. These symptoms often worsen during the night and can be alarming for parents, signaling the need for appropriate medical attention. In contrast to croup, epiglottitis is characterized by rapid onset of fever, severe sore throat, and difficulty swallowing, often without the typical cough associated with croup. Asthma is usually characterized by wheezing and chest tightness, and while it can cause a cough, it does not typically present with a "seal bark" or stridor. Bronchiolitis, mainly seen in infants, manifests through wheezing and respiratory distress, but it lacks the specific barking cough associated with croup. Understanding these distinctions