Questions and Answers
Which of the following would be the MOST compelling reason to disagree with a patient's refusal of transport after experiencing a seizure?
A patient who is possibly experiencing a stroke is NOT eligible for thrombolytic therapy if he or she:
What does a patient with slurred speech likely experience?
Dysarthria
What does altered mental status indicate?
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During the primary assessment of a semiconscious patient, what should you ensure?
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What signs are considered early indications of increased intracranial pressure?
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What condition can mimic symptoms of hypoglycemia?
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Interruption of cerebral blood flow may result from all of the following, EXCEPT:
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What do patients with a subarachnoid hemorrhage typically complain of?
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What does the left cerebral hemisphere control?
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What is the MOST significant risk factor for a hemorrhagic stroke?
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What is a principal difference between a patient who has had a stroke and a patient with hypoglycemia?
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What are the three major parts of the brain?
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When assessing arm drift of a suspected stroke patient, what should you ask the patient to do?
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What results when blood flow to a part of the brain is cut off by a blockage inside a blood vessel?
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What should you be MOST alert for when caring for a patient with documented hypoglycemia?
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What is the MOST important information to determine when obtaining medical history from the family of a suspected stroke patient?
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Which of the following conditions would be the LEAST likely to mimic the signs and symptoms of a stroke?
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Which condition would MOST likely affect the entire brain?
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Which of the following MOST accurately describes a simple partial seizure?
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Which of the following MOST accurately describes what the patient will experience during the postictal state that follows a seizure?
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Which of the following symptoms would lead you to believe that a patient's headache is caused by sinus congestion?
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If a patient with slurred speech has a history of TIAs and hypertension, which area of the brain is likely affected?
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What should treatment for a patient with sudden onset of left-sided paralysis include?
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What should you do for a child experiencing a seizure after a high fever?
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What Glasgow Coma Scale score should be assigned if a patient opens his eyes, moans, and pulls away when you pinch his trapezius muscle?
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Study Notes
Seizures
- A generalized (tonic-clonic) seizure may lead to refusal of transport, especially if the patient is not on any medications.
- Confusion and fatigue are common in the postictal state after a seizure.
- A simple partial seizure originates in one extremity.
Stroke and Related Conditions
- Thrombolytic therapy is contraindicated in patients with bleeding within the brain.
- Conditions mimicking stroke symptoms include hypoglycemia, which can lead to altered mental status.
- Sudden severe headaches are typical complaints in subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Mental status differentiation is crucial between stroke and hypoglycemia patients.
- Symptoms like slurred speech indicate dysarthria.
Brain Function and Health Risks
- The left cerebral hemisphere governs the right side of the body.
- Hypertension is the most significant risk factor for hemorrhagic strokes.
- An ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked.
- Key brain components include the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem.
- Respiratory failure or cardiopulmonary arrest can impact the entire brain.
Patient Assessment
- During arm drift assessment for stroke, ask the patient to close their eyes.
- Assessing when the patient last appeared normal is essential for emergency care.
- Symptoms that worsen when bending over may indicate sinus congestion.
Specific Case Management
- For a semiconscious patient, ensure airway patency and support ventilation.
- Positioning in recovery is critical for stroke patients with stable respiratory status.
- After finding a patient with slurred speech and a history of TIAs, the left hemisphere is likely affected.
Pediatric Considerations
- In the case of a seizing child with a high fever, transport to the hospital while reassuring the family is necessary.
Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)
- A patient who opens eyes, moans, and withdraws from a painful stimulus would have a GCS score of 8.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge with these flashcards about emergency medical situations, specifically focusing on Chapter 17. Each card presents a scenario to evaluate the best course of action in emergency care. Great for EMT students preparing for assessments.