Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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Which system must absorb excess fluid to prevent tissue edema?

  1. Circulatory

  2. Lymphatic

  3. Endocrine

  4. Respiratory

The correct answer is: Lymphatic

The lymphatic system is responsible for absorbing excess fluid from the interstitial spaces in tissues, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body. This system collects surplus fluid that escapes from blood vessels into the surrounding tissues and returns it to the bloodstream. By doing so, it prevents the accumulation of fluid and subsequent tissue swelling, known as edema. In addition to fluid absorption, the lymphatic system plays a vital role in immune responses by filtering out toxins and waste products through lymph nodes. While the circulatory system does transport fluids (including blood and lymph), it does not directly absorb excess interstitial fluid. The endocrine system is involved in hormone regulation and metabolic processes, and the respiratory system is focused on gas exchange, neither of which directly address fluid balance as effectively as the lymphatic system.