EMT Patient Assessment Practice Test

Jaundice is the yellow discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes (sclera) caused by an excess buildup of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells, and the liver normally processes it and excretes it in bile. When the liver is damaged, bile ducts are blocked, or there is rapid red-blood-cell breakdown, bilirubin can’t be cleared properly and starts to accumulate in tissues, giving that yellow tint.

In an emergency scene, noticing jaundice suggests possible liver disease or dysfunction, biliary obstruction, or hemolysis, and should prompt questions about accompanying symptoms like dark urine, pale stools, right upper-quadrant pain, or confusion, as well as assessment of overall stability and need for urgent care. The other conditions listed aren’t described by yellow discoloration of the skin or eyes; fever points to infection, dehydration changes skin turgor and moisture, and anemia affects color and oxygen-carrying status but doesn’t cause yellow sclera or skin.