Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What does an epidural hematoma typically involve?

1. Above the dura mater

2. Below the dura mater

3. Due to slowly expanding venous bleed

4. Results from a rapidly expanding arterial bleed

The correct answer is: Results from a rapidly expanding arterial bleed

An epidural hematoma is characterized by the accumulation of blood that occurs between the dura mater and the skull, typically resulting from a head injury. The primary cause of this type of hematoma is often a rapidly expanding arterial bleed, usually from a torn artery. This mechanism is critical because it allows blood to quickly accumulate in the space, leading to increased intracranial pressure and a significant risk of brain injury if not promptly addressed. Understanding the nature of the bleeding is essential in emergency medical care because it informs treatment decisions. The rapid accumulation associated with arterial bleeding can lead to rapid deterioration in a patient’s condition, necessitating immediate medical intervention, such as surgical evacuation of the hematoma. This contrasts with other types of hematomas, such as subdural hematomas, which typically involve venous bleeding and can expand more slowly, often leading to different clinical presentations and management strategies.