National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

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Study for the NRCME DOT Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your exam!

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A driver has a blood pressure of 176/124 mm Hg. What is the appropriate certification period?

  1. 1 year

  2. 6 months

  3. 1-time certification for 3 months

  4. Disqualify. Refer for treatment

The correct answer is: Disqualify. Refer for treatment

In the scenario provided, the driver presents with a blood pressure reading of 176/124 mm Hg, which indicates hypertension. According to the DOT medical standards, a driver with stage 2 hypertension, which is classified as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher, is considered unfit for duty unless the condition is controlled. When faced with such elevated blood pressure readings, it is essential to prioritize the driver's health and safety, as well as the safety of the public. Therefore, the most appropriate action is to disqualify the driver from certification and refer them for medical treatment. This approach ensures that the driver seeks the necessary care to manage their hypertension effectively before considering clearance for driving again. A disqualification allows for the implementation of treatment and monitoring to achieve a safer and more stable blood pressure level, promoting overall safety for the driver as well as for others on the road. The other certification periods mentioned do not adequately address the immediate health risk posed by such significantly elevated blood pressure.