Paramedic National Registry Practice

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Prepare for the Paramedic National Registry Exam with our comprehensive quiz featuring a series of multiple-choice questions and detailed study materials. Each question is designed to enhance your understanding and readiness for this critical certification exam.

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What type of medication is Diltiazem?

Beta-Blocker
Calcium Channel Blocker
Alpha-Agonist
Vasodilator

The correct answer is: Calcium Channel Blocker

Diltiazem is classified as a calcium channel blocker. This type of medication works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells during depolarization. By blocking calcium channels, diltiazem reduces cardiac contractility and dilates coronary and peripheral blood vessels, ultimately leading to decreased heart rate and blood pressure. It is commonly used in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of arrhythmias. Calcium channel blockers like diltiazem are effective because they specifically target the pathways involved in muscle contraction and vascular tone, making them essential in the treatment of cardiovascular conditions. This mechanism differentiates it from the other medication categories, each of which has distinct actions and uses in clinical practice.