Emergency Medical Response Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the medical term for fainting?

Psychological shock

Orthostatic hypotension

Vasovagal response

Syncope (correct)

What is an appropriate initial treatment for a patient experiencing vasovagal reactions?

Assist into supine position with feet elevated (correct)

Provide oxygen supplementation

Administer epinephrine

Administer IV fluids

Which type of shock is now classified as posttraumatic stress disorder?

Psychological shock (correct)

Neurogenic shock

Hypovolemic shock

Cardiogenic shock

What symptom is commonly associated with mild contrast reactions?

Warmth Signup and view all the answers

In severe allergic reactions, what is the first step for treatment?

Maintain airway and call a code Signup and view all the answers

Diabetes insipidus is characterized by which of the following symptoms?

Polyuria and thirst Signup and view all the answers

Which category of shock is characterized by significant systemic vascular resistance and can lead to bradycardia?

Neurogenic shock Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of hypovolemic shock?

Massive blood or plasma loss Signup and view all the answers

For patients at risk of contrast-media reactions, which premedication is typically administered?

Antihistamines and/or corticosteroids Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an early sign of shock?

Elevated blood pressure Signup and view all the answers

What type of shock is characterized by pooling of blood due to failure of arterial resistance?

Neurogenic shock Signup and view all the answers

In response to a patient in shock, which action should a radiographer take immediately?

Assist the patient to a supine position Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of allergic (anaphylactic) shock?

Severe dyspnea from respiratory edema Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of shock is primarily caused by a cardiac issue?

Cardiogenic shock Signup and view all the answers

In a patient showing signs of shock, what change in blood pressure is typically observed?

30 mm Hg drop from baseline Signup and view all the answers

Which type of shock would most likely result from a severe systemic infection?

Septic shock Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic symptom of reactive airway disease?

Coughing or wheezing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following substances can cause a pulmonary embolism?

Air Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct action to take when a patient is in cardiac arrest?

Call code and begin CPR Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a defibrillator?

To deliver an electric shock to correct cardiac rhythm Signup and view all the answers

Which step is NOT part of using an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)?

Check for a pulse Signup and view all the answers

What is the highest possible score on the Glasgow Coma Scale?

15 Signup and view all the answers

How long does an AED require to analyze the patient's rhythm?

5–15 seconds Signup and view all the answers

When assessing head injuries, which level of consciousness indicates that the patient is unresponsive but reactive to painful stimuli?

Unconscious, but reactive Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 17: Dealing with Acute Situations

Objectives: Discuss procedures for assisting patients during respiratory distress, myocardial infarction, stroke, asthma, epistaxis, angina, nausea, and syncope. List the four levels of consciousness and explain the Glasgow Coma Scale. List precautions for handling patients with possible spinal, rib, or extremity fractures. Recognize shock signs and respond appropriately. Explain syncope and vertigo differences. Contrast diabetic coma/hyperglycemia, insulin shock/hypoglycemia, and seizure disorders, including safety precautions and observations. Identify the need for CPR; recognize AED indications; and list the steps.

Key Terms (Part 1)

Anaphylaxis
Anoxia
Asthma
Cardiac arrest
Cardiac tamponade
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Cerebrovascular accident (CVA)
Concussion
Defibrillator
Edema
Epistaxis
Evisceration
Hemorrhage
Hemothorax
Heimlich maneuver
Hyperglycemia
Hypoglycemia

Key Terms (Part 2)

Myocardial infarction (MI)
Myocardial ischemia
Pleural effusion
Pneumonia
Pneumothorax
Pulmonary edema
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
Respiratory arrest
Stridor
Syncope
Thoracentesis
Thoracotomy
Tremor
Urticaria
Vasovagal
Vertigo

Respiratory Emergencies

Airway Obstruction: Usually caused by foreign objects (choking).
- Adults: Abdominal thrusts
- Infants/small children: Alternate back blows and chest thrusts
Respiratory Arrest: May result from choking.
Reactive Airway Disease: Characterized by coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Cardiac Emergencies (Part 1)

Acute Coronary Syndrome: Group of symptoms signifying myocardial infarction (MI) or heart attack.
Angina Pectoris: Chest pain triggered by exertion or stress, often relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.
Cardiac Arrest: Shake and shout to rule out syncope. Check carotid pulse and respirations. Initiate CPR if needed until medical personnel arrive.

Cardiac Emergencies (Part 2)

Defibrillator: Delivers an electric shock to correct ineffective cardiac rhythms. Personnel should be 2 feet away during administration.

Cardiac Emergencies (Part 3)

AED (Automatic External Defibrillator): Easier to use than standard defibrillators. Steps:
- Turn on power
- Attach adhesive pads to the victim's chest.
- Attach pads to machine cables
- Clear the area.
- Turn on rhythm analysis (5-15 seconds).
- Press the shock control if indicated.

Trauma: Head Injuries

Patients with head injuries can rapidly change levels of consciousness (LOC). Alert the physician immediately if a change is noticed.

Trauma: Spinal Injuries

Assume all trauma patients have a spinal injury until ruled out.
Obtain a cross-table lateral c-spine X-ray with immobilization in place.
Evaluate the X-ray with the ED physician before moving the patient.
Log-rolling is used to move patients when necessary.

Trauma: Chest Injuries

Hemothorax: Blood in the pleural space; treated with a thoracotomy.
Pneumothorax: Air in the pleural space; treated with a thoracotomy.
Flail Chest: Multiple rib fractures. Observe for shock and hemorrhage into the pericardial sac.

Trauma: Extremity Fractures

Compound Fracture: Bone fragments protruding through the skin.
Closed Fracture: No wound associated with the fracture.
Two people are needed to image long-bone fractures. One person supports the limb above and below, while the other positions the image receptor.

Trauma: Wounds (Part 1)

Postsurgical Wound Dehiscence: Sutures pulling apart, potentially leading to tissues protruding (evisceration)

Trauma: Wounds (Part 2)

Burns: Categorized as first, second, third, or fourth degree. Respiratory complications like pleural effusion and pneumonia can occur.

Shock (Part 1)

A general circulatory failure where blood pressure is insufficient to adequately perfuse vital tissues and remove metabolic waste products. It is a dangerous, potentially fatal condition.
Early signs include pallor, increased heart rate, increased respirations, restlessness or confusion.

Shock (Part 2)

Five main types: Hypovolemic, septic, neurogenic, cardiogenic, and allergic (anaphylactic).

Hypovolemic Shock

Caused by significant blood or plasma loss from hemorrhage, burns, or dehydration. Insufficient fluid in the circulatory system.

Shock (Part 1) - Continued

Septic Shock: Caused by a severe, often systemic infection.
Neurogenic Shock: Failure of arterial resistance. Blood pools in peripheral vessels, common in nervous system injuries.
Closely monitor blood pressure in patients with head or spinal trauma.

Shock (Part 2) - Continued

Cardiogenic Shock: Results from cardiac failure or interference with heart function.
Allergic Shock (Anaphylaxis): Occurs from exposure to foreign substances.

Shock Symptoms

Restlessness, apprehensiveness
Increased pulse rate
Pallor with weakness or a change in thinking ability
Cool, clammy skin (except in septic or neurogenic shock)
Decreased blood pressure of 30 mm Hg below baseline systolic pressure
Decreased urination
Increased, shallow respirations

Radiographer Response to Shock

Stop the procedure.
Assist the patient into a supine position.
Elevate the feet.
Elevate the head if dyspnea is present.
Check blood pressure.
Administer supplemental oxygen.
Be prepared to perform CPR.
Assist the code team/physician as needed.

Syncope

Medical term for fainting. Mild form of shock. Assist patient into a supine position with elevated feet.

Psychological Shock

Now known as posttraumatic stress disorder. Different symptoms, signs, and treatment.

Medical Emergencies

Contrast-media reactions
Drug reactions
Diabetic emergencies
Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs)
Seizures
Vertigo
Orthostatic hypotension
Epistaxis
Nausea and vomiting

Contrast-Media Reactions:

Range from mild to severe.
No predictors.
Begin with a small amount, monitor for signs/symptoms.
Patients at risk are premedicated with antihistamine and/or corticosteroids.

Mild Contrast Reactions

Warmth, flushing, metallic taste, coughing, nausea. Resolve spontaneously.

Moderate Contrast Reactions

Erythema, urticaria, bronchospasm. Treat with antihistamines, IV medications, or bronchodilators as needed.

Vasovagal Reactions

Symptoms: Diaphoresis, hypotension, bradycardia.
Treatment: Position supine with feet elevated (20 degrees). Head elevated if needed. IV fluids and atropine for bradycardia.

Severe (Anaphylactic) Reactions

Symptoms: Warmth, tingling, itching (palms/soles), dysphagia, laryngeal/bronchial edema, respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest, seizures.
Treatment: Maintain airway, call a code, epinephrine IV, other drugs as needed.

Drug Reactions

Wide range of symptoms and severity.
Treatment tailored to severity and symptoms.

Diabetic Emergencies:

Diabetes Insipidus: Caused by kidney/pituitary issues, characterized by polyuria and thirst. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and seizures. Fluid replacement needed.
Diabetes Mellitus:
- Type I: Insulin-dependent, more likely to lead to diabetic coma. Symptoms include extreme thirst, polyuria, and a fruity-smelling breath.
- Type II: Related to obesity, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic (HHNK) syndrome is an emergent condition found in neglected cases.

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

Cause: Occurs with Type I diabetes when insulin is taken and meals are skipped.
Symptoms: Sudden weakness, sweating, tremors, hunger, and potential loss of consciousness.
Treatment: Candy, sweet fruit juice, or glucose gel (inside the cheek).

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

Also known as a stroke. Caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain (hemorrhage or occlusion).
Warning Signs (FAST): Facial drooping, arm weakness (one or both sides), speech difficulty. Time to call 911.
Other symptoms may include extreme dizziness, headaches, vision changes, and loss of consciousness.

Seizures

May involve trembling, shaking, or violent spasms (grand mal). Absent seizures are brief losses of consciousness (petit mal).
Treatment: Keep the patient safe (remove obstacles, protect head, no restraints/objects in mouth). Call a code immediately.

Post-Seizure Care

Turn the patient to a lateral recumbent position to prevent aspiration.
Provide reassurance and assistance. Patient may be irritable or confused.

Orthostatic Hypotension

Dizziness from sitting up too quickly from a lying position.
Avoidance involves assisting to sit up slowly.

Vertigo

Severe dizziness, sometimes with nausea. Caused by inner-ear issues or brain/spinal-cord lesions.

Epistaxis

Medical term for a nosebleed.
Treat by applying pressure to the nasal septum for 10 minutes with gloved hands.
Physician consultation if bleeding continues.

Nausea

Instruct patient to breathe slowly (nose/mouth).

Vomiting

Wear gloves, provide an emesis basin.
Rinse mouth with water and tissue.
Roll patient on their side to avoid aspiration if lying down.

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Description

Test your knowledge on emergency medical treatments and shock types with this quiz. It covers important concepts like allergic reactions, vasovagal responses, and diabetes insipidus. Ideal for students in healthcare or emergency response training.