FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What condition is characterized by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure leading to fainting?

1. Orthostatic hypotension

2. Vasovagal syncope

3. Panic attack

4. Cardiac arrest

The correct answer is: Vasovagal syncope

Vasovagal syncope is characterized by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to fainting. This condition often occurs in response to certain triggers such as stress, pain, or prolonged standing. When the body’s nervous system reacts excessively, it can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain and resulting in a loss of consciousness. The mechanisms involve a reflex called the vasovagal reflex, which causes the heart rate to slow and blood vessels to widen. Consequently, the drop in both heart rate and blood pressure causes a transient loss of consciousness, which is typically self-resolving. Individuals usually recover quickly once in a horizontal position, allowing blood flow to return to the brain. Other conditions in the list do not specifically describe this reflexive response to triggers. Orthostatic hypotension involves a drop in blood pressure related to position changes but is not specifically related to heart rate drops in a manner that leads directly to fainting. Panic attacks can cause a range of symptoms, including palpitations and anxiety, but do not typically result in a significant drop in blood pressure and heart rate. Cardiac arrest, while it may lead to loss of consciousness, is generally due to a complete