Medical Emergency: Key Notes & Top 25 MCQs for UPSC Exams
Emergencies can occur anytime and anywhere—be it at home, on the road, or in the office. At such times, if you have knowledge of first aid and life-saving medicines, you can save someone’s life—maybe even your own. This blog post is specially prepared for you so that you do not panic in times of crisis, but help by giving the right medicine at the right time. Here you will find accurate and practical information about first aid kits, emergency medicines, and their use.
Glossary of Emergency & First-Aid Terms
| Medicine | |
| Adrenaline Injection | Used during severe allergic shock (anaphylaxis). |
| Aspirin Tablet | Prevents blood clotting during chest pain or heart attack. |
| ORS/Glucose Powder | Provides quick energy in low sugar or dehydration. |
| Kit Tools | |
| Pulse Oximeter | Measures oxygen levels, essential in respiratory distress. |
| Thermometer | Detects fever and helps monitor body temperature. |
| Bandage & Gauze | Controls bleeding and protects wounds. |
| Emergency Response | |
| Choking | Heimlich maneuver is used to clear airway blockages. |
| Burn Injury | Rinse with cold water and apply antibiotic ointment. |
| Snake Bite | Immobilize the area and rush to the hospital immediately. |
| Actions | |
| Do Not Panic | Staying calm helps make correct decisions quickly. |
| Note Medications | Record medicines given before doctor’s consultation. |
What are the Major Life-Saving Medicines Used in Emergencies?
In a medical emergency, if the right medicine is available at the right time, a life can be saved.
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Adrenaline Injection: A life-saving medicine in case of severe allergies like anaphylaxis (allergic shock).
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Aspirin Tablet: If there is a possibility of chest pain or heart attack, it can save a life by thinning the blood.
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Glucose solution (ORS/glucose powder): Provides instant energy when sugar level drops, which is essential for patients suffering from hypoglycemia.
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Nitroglycerin tablet: For heart patients, helpful in reducing angina pain and improving blood flow.
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Diazepam or lorazepam: an essential tranquilizer to prevent seizures.
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Strong painkillers (Tramadol/Diclofenac): Medicines that provide temporary relief in case of severe pain or an accident.
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Insulin injection: For emergency control in case of high blood sugar in diabetic patients.
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Bronchodilator inhaler (salbutamol): Helps in opening the respiratory tract during an asthma attack.
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Norflox/Metronidazole: Antibiotics that provide immediate relief in case of diarrhea and stomach infection.
Hydrocortisone creams and tablets are used to treat allergies, edema, and skin irritation.
What Essential First-Aid Kits Should You Always Have?
A first-aid kit consists of a few items that come in handy in every situation, big or small.
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Safety scissors, sterile gauze, and bandages: essential for cleaning and stopping bleeding in an injury or wound.
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Antiseptic solution (Betadine/hand sanitizer): Essential for cleaning the injury and preventing infection.
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Thermometer and blood pressure monitor: Always carry them to check fever and blood pressure status.
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Pulse oximeter: An essential tool in COVID and respiratory distress to detect oxygen levels.
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Emergency contact card: Carry the patient's allergies, blood group, and other important information.
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Digital watch and notebook: Useful for recording medication timings and keeping notes.
Disposable masks and gloves are an essential component of good hygiene to avoid infection.
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Cool packs and heat pads: Very useful tools for instant relief from sprains, swelling, or pain.
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Splint or triangular bandage: Helpful in immobilizing the bone in case of fracture or sprain.
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Flashlight and safety pin: essential tools during first aid at night or in a dark place.
What are the Frequent Medical Emergencies and Their First Aid?
Each emergency requires a different first-aid method for an effective response.
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Heart attack: Make the patient sit and rest, call an ambulance, give aspirin, and give oxygen support if available.
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Choking: Use the Heimlich technique; call a doctor immediately.
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Epileptic seizure: Make the patient lie down in a safe place, do not put anything in the mouth, and record the duration.
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Burn injury: Wash the burned area with cold water, apply antibiotic cream, and cover with a loose bandage.
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Fainting: Check the patient's breathing and pulse while they are lying upright with their head down and legs up.
Cut: Put a sterile bandage over the wound, clean it, apply antiseptic, and stop the bleeding.
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Snake bite/insect bite: Tie a tight bandage, do not let the affected limb move, and take it to the hospital immediately.
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Poison ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Keep the medicine container, and go to the hospital immediately.
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Heatstroke: Cool the patient's body, take them to a cool place, and administer water or ORS.
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Bone fracture: Keep the limb still, do not move it, and see a doctor immediately.
How to Take the Right Decision in an Emergency
Your cool mind and the right decision can save someone's life.
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First, keep yourself safe, then help the patient, because your safety is paramount.
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Assess the situation and give first aid immediately—do not delay.
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Call the ambulance or helpline number immediately; it is important to take the patient to the hospital after first aid.
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If you give medicine, note it down so that the correct information can be given to the doctor later.
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Do not panic; confidence and stability are most important in first aid.
Essential Gadgets & Medicines to Keep at Home for Emergencies
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Emergency Gadgets | |
| Thermometer | Measures body temperature during fever. |
| Pulse Oximeter | Monitors oxygen saturation in blood. |
| BP Monitor | Checks blood pressure levels regularly. |
| Glucometer | Measures blood sugar for diabetes management. |
| Flashlight | For use in dark places or power cuts. |
| Digital Watch | Tracks time for medicines or emergency timing. |
| Scissors & Tweezers | Cuts bandages or removes splinters/insects. |
| Emergency Medicines | |
| Aspirin | For heart attack symptoms and chest pain. |
| ORS/Glucose Powder | Restores hydration and energy quickly. |
| Antiseptic Cream | Treats cuts, wounds, and skin infections. |
| Tramadol/Diclofenac | Painkillers for injury or severe pain. |
| Salbutamol Inhaler | Opens airways during asthma attacks. |
| Loratadine/Cetirizine | For allergy relief and nasal congestion. |
| Norfloxacin/Metronidazole | Quick relief from stomach infections. |
| Paracetamol | Used to reduce fever and mild pain. |
Top 25 MCQs on Medical Emergency for UPSC Exams
Practice the Top 25 MCQs on Medical Emergencies to strengthen understanding of critical conditions, immediate response measures, and public health relevance, enhancing exam readiness for UPSC prelims and other competitive examinations.
1. What is the "Golden Hour" in emergency medicine?
a) The hour before sunrise
b) The first hour after a traumatic injury when prompt treatment is most likely to prevent death
c) The time taken to reach the hospital
d) The last hour of surgery
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Answer: b) The first hour after a traumatic injury when prompt treatment is most likely to prevent death
Rapid intervention during this window significantly increases survival rates for trauma, heart attack, and stroke victims.
2. In CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), what is the recommended ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths for an adult?
a) 15:2
b) 30:2
c) 50:5
d) 10:1
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Answer: b) 30:2
[Image of CPR chest compression hand position]
Current guidelines recommend 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. If untrained, "Hands-Only CPR" (continuous compressions) is advised.
3. The "Heimlich Maneuver" is the primary first aid treatment for:
a) Drowning
b) Choking (Airway obstruction)
c) Heart Attack
d) Burns
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Answer: b) Choking (Airway obstruction)
[Image of Heimlich maneuver technique]
Abdominal thrusts force air out of the lungs to dislodge the object blocking the windpipe.
4. The acronym "FAST" helps identify the signs of which medical emergency?
a) Heart Attack
b) Stroke
c) Seizure
d) Fracture
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Answer: b) Stroke
It stands for **F**ace drooping, **A**rm weakness, **S**peech difficulty, **T**ime to call emergency services.
5. What is the correct first aid for a minor burn?
a) Apply ice immediately
b) Apply butter or oil
c) Hold under cool running water for 10-20 minutes
d) Pop the blisters
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Answer: c) Hold under cool running water for 10-20 minutes
Cool water stops the burning process and relieves pain. Ice can damage the tissue further, and butter can trap heat.
6. In case of a "Nosebleed" (Epistaxis), you should:
a) Tilt the head back
b) Lean forward slightly and pinch the soft part of the nose
c) Lie down flat
d) Blow the nose hard
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Answer: b) Lean forward slightly and pinch the soft part of the nose
Leaning back causes blood to run down the throat, which can cause vomiting or choking. Pinching helps clot the vessel.
7. "Anaphylaxis" is a severe, life-threatening reaction to:
a) Loud noise
b) Allergens (like peanuts, bee stings, or drugs)
c) Cold water
d) Lack of sleep
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Answer: b) Allergens (like peanuts, bee stings, or drugs)
It causes airways to swell and blood pressure to drop. Immediate administration of Epinephrine (EpiPen) is critical.
8. What is the purpose of an "AED" (Automated External Defibrillator)?
a) To measure blood pressure
b) To deliver an electric shock to restart a stopped heart
c) To provide oxygen
d) To stop bleeding
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Answer: b) To deliver an electric shock to restart a stopped heart
AEDs analyze heart rhythm and advise if a shock is needed to correct arrhythmias like Ventricular Fibrillation.
9. If someone is having a "Seizure" (Fit), what should you do?
a) Put a spoon in their mouth
b) Restrain them tightly
c) Clear the area of sharp objects and cushion their head
d) Give them water
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Answer: c) Clear the area of sharp objects and cushion their head
Never put anything in their mouth or hold them down. Once the seizure stops, place them in the recovery position.
10. The most effective way to control heavy external bleeding is:
a) Applying a tourniquet immediately
b) Applying direct pressure on the wound
c) Washing it with water
d) Elevating the limb only
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Answer: b) Applying direct pressure on the wound
Use a sterile cloth or hand to press firmly. Tourniquets are a last resort for life-threatening limb bleeding.
11. "Hypoglycemia" in a diabetic patient means:
a) High blood sugar
b) Low blood sugar
c) High fever
d) Low iron
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Answer: b) Low blood sugar
Symptoms include sweating, confusion, and shaking. If conscious, give them a sugary drink or candy immediately.
12. What distinguishes "Heat Stroke" from "Heat Exhaustion"?
a) Heat stroke is milder
b) In Heat Stroke, sweating stops and body temp rises dangerously (>104°F)
c) Heat Stroke happens in winter
d) Heat Exhaustion causes unconsciousness first
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Answer: b) In Heat Stroke, sweating stops and body temp rises dangerously (>104°F)
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The body's cooling mechanism fails, leading to hot, dry skin and potential organ damage.
13. In case of a "Snake Bite," you should NEVER:
a) Keep the patient calm
b) Immobilize the bitten limb
c) Cut the wound and suck out the venom
d) Remove tight jewelry
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Answer: c) Cut the wound and suck out the venom
This is a movie myth. Cutting can cause infection or nerve damage, and sucking introduces bacteria without removing much venom.
14. "Shock" is a critical condition where:
a) A person is surprised
b) Organs and tissues do not receive enough blood and oxygen
c) Electricity hits the body
d) The body overheats
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Answer: b) Organs and tissues do not receive enough blood and oxygen
Signs include pale/clammy skin, rapid pulse, and confusion. Lay the person down and elevate legs slightly if no injury prevents it.
15. What is the "Recovery Position" used for?
a) Sleeping comfortably
b) Keeping an unconscious but breathing person's airway clear
c) Performing CPR
d) Treating a fracture
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Answer: b) Keeping an unconscious but breathing person's airway clear
[Image of recovery position steps]
Rolling the person onto their side prevents the tongue from blocking the throat and prevents choking on vomit.
16. If a tooth is knocked out (avulsed), how should it be transported to the dentist?
a) In tissue paper
b) In alcohol
c) In milk or the person's own saliva
d) In hot water
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Answer: c) In milk or the person's own saliva
Keeping the root cells moist and alive is crucial for successful reimplantation. Never scrub the root.
17. "Hypothermia" occurs when body temperature drops below:
a) 37°C (98.6°F)
b) 35°C (95°F)
c) 0°C (32°F)
d) 20°C (68°F)
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Answer: b) 35°C (95°F)
It can lead to heart failure and death. Treatment involves gradual warming (removing wet clothes, using blankets).
18. What is the universal emergency distress signal for Choking?
a) Waving hands
b) Clutching the throat with both hands
c) Coughing loudly
d) Pointing to the mouth
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Answer: b) Clutching the throat with both hands
If a person makes this sign and cannot speak or cough, perform the Heimlich maneuver immediately.
19. "Triage" in a mass casualty emergency refers to:
a) Treating everyone equally
b) Sorting patients based on the severity of injuries to prioritize treatment
c) Calling the police
d) Transporting patients
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Answer: b) Sorting patients based on the severity of injuries to prioritize treatment
Red tags are for immediate life threats, yellow for urgent but stable, green for walking wounded, and black for deceased.
20. In case of accidental chemical poisoning, you should generally NOT:
a) Call emergency services
b) Identify the poison
c) Induce vomiting (unless instructed by a professional)
d) Keep the container
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Answer: c) Induce vomiting (unless instructed by a professional)
Vomiting corrosive chemicals (like bleach or acid) burns the throat and esophagus a second time on the way up.
21. "Good Samaritan Law" protects:
a) Doctors only
b) Bystanders who provide voluntary assistance in an emergency from legal liability
c) Police officers
d) Ambulance drivers
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Answer: b) Bystanders who provide voluntary assistance in an emergency from legal liability
It encourages people to help accident victims without fear of being sued or harassed by police (in India and many countries).
22. What does the "C-A-B" sequence stand for in modern CPR guidelines?
a) Circulation, Airway, Breathing
b) Call, Ask, Breathe
c) Check, Air, Blood
d) Compression, Air, Body
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Answer: a) Circulation (Compressions), Airway, Breathing
The American Heart Association changed it from A-B-C to C-A-B because starting compressions immediately is critical.
23. "Sepsis" is a life-threatening complication of:
a) An infection
b) A fracture
c) A headache
d) Hunger
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Answer: a) An infection
The body's immune response to an infection damages its own tissues. It requires immediate antibiotics and fluids.
24. When treating a fracture (broken bone) before the ambulance arrives, the main goal is to:
a) Push the bone back in
b) Immobilize the limb to prevent movement
c) Massage the area
d) Apply heat
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Answer: b) Immobilize the limb to prevent movement
Use a splint or sling. Moving a fracture can damage nerves, blood vessels, and increase pain.
25. What is the emergency number for Ambulance/Medical help in India (Pan-India Emergency)?
a) 100
b) 112 (or 108)
c) 911
d) 101
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Answer: b) 112 (or 108)
112 is the single emergency helpline number in India (like 911 in the US). 108 is widely used for ambulances.
Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites
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