Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by a seal-like bark sound and stridor?

1. Croup

2. Asthma

3. Pneumonia

4. Bronchitis

The correct answer is: Croup

Croup is characterized by a distinctive seal-like bark sound and stridor due to inflammation of the upper airway, particularly affecting the larynx and trachea. This condition is commonly seen in young children and is often the result of viral infections, such as parainfluenza. The swelling in the airway leads to the characteristic barking cough, along with stridor, which is a high-pitched wheezing sound that occurs when breathing in, indicating airway obstruction. The other conditions listed do not typically present with this specific combination of symptoms. Asthma primarily causes wheezing and may lead to coughing, but it does not produce the seal-like bark. Pneumonia generally results in symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, with a more productive cough pattern. Bronchitis may cause a cough but does not exhibit the distinctive sound associated with croup unless there is significant upper airway involvement, which is not typical.