Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

A patient who has orthostatic hypotension should be helped from the supine position to the sitting position to prevent which of the following?

1. Circulatory Shock

2. Fainting

3. Seizures

4. Syncope

The correct answer is: Syncope

When a patient with orthostatic hypotension changes positions — specifically from supine (lying down) to sitting — there is a risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure due to the effects of gravity. As blood pools in the lower extremities, less blood returns to the heart, making it more difficult for the body to maintain adequate blood flow to the brain. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, and potentially fainting or syncope. In this context, syncope describes a temporary loss of consciousness caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain. By helping the patient to sit up first, the medical assistant can allow their body to adjust to the position change more gradually, facilitating better blood circulation and minimizing the risk of syncope. While the other options relate to the cardiovascular system, fainting specifically points to the sudden loss of awareness and control associated with inadequate blood flow to the brain, distinguishing it as the most relevant outcome in this scenario. The importance of monitoring and assisting patients with orthostatic hypotension during position changes cannot be overstated, as it helps to prevent these sudden and serious complications.