Emergency Medical Services Principles

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Questions and Answers

What is a key sign of cardiac arrest within the first 5-6 minutes?

Hyperoxia in the brain

Rising blood pressure

Increased heart rate

Brain begins to suffer from hypoxia (correct)

In the case of an infant, what is the correct compression-to-breath ratio during CPR?

15 compressions: 2 breaths

30 compressions: 2 breaths (correct)

20 compressions: 1 breath

10 compressions: 1 breath

Which type of shock is characterized by a failure of the heart to pump effectively?

Distributive shock

Cardiogenic shock (correct)

Neurological shock

Hypovolemic shock

What is the primary role of beta-2 receptors in the body?

Cause bronchodilation Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'compensated shock' refer to?

Shock that the body is starting to respond to Signup and view all the answers

When should a meter-dose inhaler (MDI) be appropriately utilized?

For asthma or COPD exacerbations Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best differentiates myocardial infarction (MI) from angina?

Angina is temporary ischemia, MI is prolonged ischemia Signup and view all the answers

Which structure of the heart is NOT a pacemaker site?

Ventricular myocardium Signup and view all the answers

What part of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response?

Sympathetic nervous system Signup and view all the answers

What sequence correctly describes the flow of blood through the heart?

Right atrium → Right ventricle → Pulmonary artery → Lungs Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly distinguishes Type 1 diabetes from Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 is autoimmune; Type 2 often occurs due to lifestyle factors. Signup and view all the answers

What are common signs and symptoms associated with hyperglycemia?

Increased thirst and frequent urination Signup and view all the answers

What is the total count of vertebrae in the cervical region of the spine?

7 Signup and view all the answers

What is a major function of the left ventricle in the heart?

Pumps oxygenated blood to the body Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?

Temporary stroke-like symptoms that resolve Signup and view all the answers

What role does the large intestine primarily fulfill in the digestive system?

Prepares waste for excretion Signup and view all the answers

What is the first priority in ensuring scene safety?

Ensure the scene is safe Signup and view all the answers

Who has the ultimate authority over EMS practice scope?

State regulations Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order to be considered valid?

Signed by a physician Signup and view all the answers

When can a patient refuse consent for medical treatment?

If they have a valid DNR Signup and view all the answers

What defines an occluded airway?

Complete blockage of the airway Signup and view all the answers

What are signs of inadequate breathing?

Cyanosis Signup and view all the answers

What does VPU stand for in patient assessment?

Verbal, Painful, Unresponsive Signup and view all the answers

What is a normal capillary refill time for an adult?

1-2 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the stomach?

Secretes gastric juices to break down food Signup and view all the answers

What does GCS stand for and what does it assess?

Glasgow Coma Scale; assesses consciousness Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary indication for using a traction splint?

To stabilize femur fractures Signup and view all the answers

What are the signs of a pelvic or hip fracture?

Severe pain in hip or groin Signup and view all the answers

Which letter in the APGAR score represents Respiratory effort?

R Signup and view all the answers

What happens during the third stage of labor?

Delivery of the placenta Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical action to take in case of overdose with pills?

Call poison control Signup and view all the answers

What is the immediate treatment for a sucking chest wound?

Seal with an occlusive dressing Signup and view all the answers

What key function does epinephrine perform during an anaphylactic reaction?

Increases blood circulation Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a concussion from a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

Concussion is a mild form of TBI Signup and view all the answers

When treating an abdominal evisceration, what should not be done?

Push organs back into the abdomen Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step to take when dealing with a poisoning incident?

Call poison control Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a method the body uses to cool itself during a heat emergency?

Shivering Signup and view all the answers

In the assessment of burns, which symptom is associated with 3rd degree burns?

Numbness Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is NOT typically associated with nerve agent exposure?

Fever Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between arterial and venous bleeding?

Arterial bleeding spurts and is bright red Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Scene safety is the foremost priority; assess for hazards before proceeding.
EMS scope of practice is controlled by the medical director and state regulations.
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is valid when signed by a physician and includes patient identification.
Individuals can deny consent if conscious and competent or if they possess a valid DNR.
Implied consent applies in emergencies when the patient is unconscious, while expressed consent is a clear agreement given by a competent adult.

Airway and Breathing

Airflow follows the pathway: Nose/Mouth → Pharynx → Larynx → Trachea → Bronchi → Lungs.
An occluded airway is a complete blockage that hinders airflow.
Different breathing sounds signify various conditions:
- Wheezing indicates constricted airways.
- Stridor suggests upper airway obstruction.
- Crackles point to fluid in the lungs.
- Rhonchi suggest mucus in airways.
Agonal breathing consists of infrequent, ineffective gasps; begin CPR and provide ventilations immediately.

Respiratory Support

CPAP is indicated for conditions like CHF and COPD but contraindicated in situations such as facial trauma or unconsciousness.
Breathing is crucial for supplying oxygen, essential for cellular respiration.

Vital Signs and Assessment

Normal vital signs include a pulse of 60-100 bpm, respiratory rate of 12-20/min, and blood pressure of 90-140/60-90.
Inadequate breathing may present with cyanosis, altered mental status, and decreased respiratory rate.
Capillary refill time for females should be 1-2 seconds.

Trauma and Emergency Response

The order of trauma assessment is primary assessment, followed by secondary and tertiary assessments.
Rib fractures may show localized tenderness, pain during inspiration, and crepitus.
Meter-dose inhalers (MDIs) should be used for asthma or COPD exacerbations but not for acute severe respiratory distress.

Cardiovascular System

Beta-1 receptors increase heart rate and contractility, while beta-2 receptors cause bronchodilation.
In cardiac arrest, brain hypoxia begins after 5-6 minutes, shifting cellular metabolism to anaerobic processes.
Signs of shock include tachycardia, cool, clammy skin, and increased respiratory rates.

Neurological and Endocrine Considerations

TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) features temporary stroke-like symptoms; CVA (Cerebrovascular Accident) results in permanent damage.
Insulin, produced by the pancreas, regulates blood glucose levels; its absence leads to hyperglycemia, characterized by increased thirst and frequent urination.

Pediatric Considerations

For a 10-month-old, the Rule of 9s allocates 18% to the head, 9% to each arm, 14% to each leg, and 18% to both anterior and posterior trunk.
Signs of dehydration in infants include dry mouth, lack of tears, and sunken eyes.

Trauma Management

A sucking chest wound should be sealed with an occlusive dressing to ensure it's airtight.
Treat joint dislocations by immobilizing the joint, applying ice, and seeking medical help.

Pharmacology and Treatment

Epinephrine use is indicated in anaphylaxis; contraindications are minimal in life-threatening scenarios.
Aspirin is indicated for chest pain suggesting myocardial infarction (MI) but is contraindicated in active bleeding and allergies.

Burns and Poisoning

For first, second, and third-degree burns, symptoms vary from redness and pain to blisters, swelling, and numbing.
In case of poisoning, contact poison control and never induce vomiting unless directed.

Emergency Vehicle Operation

"Driving with due regard" involves operating emergency vehicles cautiously and prioritizing the safety of all road users.

Hazardous Materials

Familiarize with classifications and characteristics to handle hazards appropriately during emergencies.

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Description

Test your knowledge on essential emergency medical services principles with this quiz. Covering topics like scene safety, EMS scope of practice, and DNR validity, this quiz is a great resource for students and professionals alike. Evaluate your understanding of critical concepts that influence EMS operations.