Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is a contraindication for an NPO patient?

1. Fractured wrist

2. Basilar skull fracture

3. Allergy to anesthesia

4. Acute heart failure

The correct answer is: Basilar skull fracture

A contraindication for an NPO (nil per os, or nothing by mouth) patient generally refers to a condition that would make it unsafe or inadvisable to withhold food and drink. In this case, a basilar skull fracture represents a situation where a patient is at risk for complications such as altered consciousness or potential airway compromise. In emergencies involving basilar skull fractures, there may be concerns about managing these patients' airways effectively. If they show signs of potential deterioration, immediate interventions might be needed that require access to the airway or potentially administering medications, making their NPO status a critical consideration. The other conditions listed—fractured wrist, allergy to anesthesia, and acute heart failure—do not typically pose immediate threats that would necessitate breaking NPO status. While they are important medical concerns, they don't create the same urgent need for food or fluids as a severe head injury may, especially when considering airway management and patient stability.