NREMT Paramedic Practice

Glucagon is indicated for which of the following conditions?

1. Respiratory distress

2. Esophageal obstruction

3. Acute chest syndrome

4. Cardiac arrest

The correct answer is: Esophageal obstruction

Glucagon is particularly indicated for esophageal obstruction, especially in cases where a patient is unable to swallow or has an impacted food bolus. Glucagon works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, which may help in dislodging an obstructing object in the esophagus. This is effective because it can stimulate the relaxation of the esophagus and facilitate the natural movement of materials down the digestive tract. In the other scenarios, glucagon does not have a therapeutic role. Respiratory distress may require bronchodilators or other interventions aimed at improving lung function. Acute chest syndrome typically involves complications related to sickle cell disease and would be treated with specific protocols focusing on oxygenation and fluid management. Lastly, during cardiac arrest, standard resuscitation protocols and medications such as epinephrine are indicated rather than glucagon, which is not used in this context. Therefore, the unique mechanism of action of glucagon specifically addressing esophageal obstruction makes it the appropriate choice in this situation.