Emergency Preparedness Chapter 57

Medical Terms and Definitions

• Strain: Injury to a muscle due to overextension.
• Hematemesis: Vomiting blood, a serious medical condition.
• Palpitations: Rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats indicating potential heart issues.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels that can lead to confusion and unconsciousness.
• Epistaxis: Commonly known as a nosebleed, often due to trauma or dry air.
• Hematoma: Swelling from blood pooling under the skin, usually caused by injury.
• Hypovolemic Shock: Medical emergency from inadequate blood volume affecting circulation.

Neurological and Injury Terms

• Concussion: Brain injury caused by jarring or impact, leading to temporary loss of function.
• Septic Shock: Life-threatening condition from widespread infection causing blood circulation failure.
• Stroke: Occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, resulting in brain damage.

Treatment Approaches

• Splint: A device used for immobilization in non-severe injuries.
• Cast: Rigid dressing molded to the body's contours for immobilization.
• Sprain: Involves partial tearing of ligaments, usually from twisting forces.
• Anaphylaxis: Severe, life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Poisonous Snakebite: Treatment guideline advises against applying ice to the bite area.

Emergency Response and Preparedness

• Contusion: Closed wound in the head, often resulting from a direct blow.
• Seizure Position: Positioning individual on the floor with head turned to the side to prevent choking.
• Disaster Response: Use medical triage to prioritize care and extend knowledge to help others.
• Dehydration: Resulting from insufficient water intake, poses serious health risks.

Anatomy and Physiology

• Xiphoid Process: The lower extension of the breastbone, significant in CPR landmark.
• Chain of Custody: Critical in legal cases regarding rape and drug use, ensuring evidence integrity.

Defibrillation and Medical Equipment

• AED Usage: Automated External Defibrillator used in cardiac emergencies to correct life-threatening rhythms like v-fib and v-tach.
• Recovery Position: Recommended for individuals who are unconscious with airway obstructions to maintain airflow.
• Crash Cart: A mobile unit stocked with emergency medical supplies for rapid response.

Other Medical Conditions

• Bee Sting Treatment: Avoid using tweezers to remove stingers, as this may release more venom.
• Bioterrorism: Deliberate release of biological agents aimed at causing harm to populations.
• Choking Emergency: Main symptom includes the inability to speak, indicating a blockage of the airway.
• V-Fib: The most common abnormal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest, requiring urgent defibrillation.

Chronic Conditions and Emergencies

• Asthma: Condition characterized by bronchial narrowing, leading to difficulty breathing.
• Epilepsy: Disorder marked by seizures resulting in involuntary muscle contractions.
• Toxic Shock Syndrome: Associated with symptoms like a red rash, particularly on hands and feet.
• Diabetic Coma: Severe consequence of prolonged hyperglycemia, requiring immediate medical treatment.
• Gallbladder Attack: Typically presents as acute abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant.

Safety and Prevention

• Health Department Reporting: Key contact for allegations of bioterrorism to ensure public safety.
• Scalp Hematoma: Needs prompt attention; ice application helps reduce swelling.
• Electrical Burn: Arises from contact with electrical currents or lightning, necessitating specialized care.
• Local Emergency Medical Services: Essential partners in delivering timely and effective emergency care.

Test your knowledge with these flashcards on emergency medical terminology from Chapter 57. Each card includes a key term and its definition, covering a range of concepts essential for understanding and responding to medical emergencies. Perfect for anyone studying emergency preparedness.