Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

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What might patients with a AAA complain of due to leaking blood in the retroperitoneal space?

Headaches
An urge to defecate
Chest pain
Shortness of breath

The correct answer is: An urge to defecate

Patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) may experience an urge to defecate due to the presence of blood leaking into the retroperitoneal space. This bleeding can lead to irritation of surrounding structures, including the bowel and associated nerves, ultimately resulting in sensations of urgency. The retroperitoneal space houses several vital organs and structures, and when blood accumulates there, it can exert pressure or cause discomfort in nearby areas, including the lower gastrointestinal tract. While other symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath may occur due to different underlying conditions, they are not directly associated with the leakage of blood from an AAA. Headaches also do not relate to a AAA, as the aneurysm primarily affects the abdominal area. Overall, the urge to defecate is a direct result of the physiological effects of blood in the retroperitoneal space and irritation of the gastrointestinal system.