Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the first step in trauma patient assessment?
What is the first step in trauma patient assessment?
What does the scene size-up determine?
What does the scene size-up determine?
Safety of the scene, mechanism of injury, number of patients, requests for additional help, stabilization of the spine.
What are the components of the initial assessment?
What are the components of the initial assessment?
General impression, level of consciousness (LOC), chief complaint, airway and breathing, circulation, priority patients.
What is assessed when evaluating airway and breathing?
What is assessed when evaluating airway and breathing?
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What should be inspected and palpated when assessing the head?
What should be inspected and palpated when assessing the head?
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What is assessed during the neck examination?
What is assessed during the neck examination?
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What is included in assessing the chest?
What is included in assessing the chest?
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What is involved in assessing the abdomen/pelvis?
What is involved in assessing the abdomen/pelvis?
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What is assessed for each extremity?
What is assessed for each extremity?
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What is assessed when evaluating the posterior?
What is assessed when evaluating the posterior?
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Study Notes
EMT Trauma Patient Assessment
- First Step: Establish BSI (Body Substance Isolation) for personal protection.
Scene Size-Up
- Ensure the scene is safe for responders and patients.
- Assess the mechanism of injury or nature of illness present.
- Determine the number of patients involved in the incident.
- Request additional assistance if required based on the situation.
- Consider spinal stabilization as part of initial assessment protocol.
Initial Assessment
- Formulate a general impression of the patient, noting age, sex, race, distress level, and overall appearance.
- Assess level of consciousness using AVPU (Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive); altered LOC may indicate inadequate perfusion or intoxication.
- Identify the chief complaint and any apparent life threats.
- Evaluate airway and breathing effectiveness.
- Assess circulation to determine blood flow and perfusion.
- Identify priority patients for timely transport decisions.
Assessing Airway and Breathing
- Conduct a thorough assessment of the airway and breathing patterns.
- Determine suitable oxygen therapy based on assessment criteria (depth, quality, rhythm, rate).
- Ensure adequate ventilation in cases of rapid breathing (>24 breaths per minute) and manage appropriately.
- Reassess vital signs after interventions.
Assessing the Head
- Inspect and palpate the scalp and ears for injuries.
- Assess the eyes for pupil response and other indicators of trauma.
- Evaluate the facial region, including oral and nasal areas for abnormalities.
Assessing the Neck
- Inspect and palpate the neck region for injuries or abnormalities.
- Check for jugular vein distention (JVD) indicating potential cardiac issues.
- Look for tracheal deviation which can signal underlying pathologies.
Assessing the Chest
- Conduct a thorough inspection for visible injuries or abnormalities.
- Perform palpation to identify tenderness, crepitus, or abnormalities.
- Auscultate (listen with a stethoscope) for breath sounds and signs of respiratory distress.
Assessing Abdomen/Pelvis
- Perform abdominal assessment to check for rigidity, tenderness, or distension.
- Assess the pelvic area for stability and potential fractures.
- Verbally acknowledge the need to assess genitalia/perineum depending on injury scope.
Assessing Extremities
- Inspect and palpate each extremity for injuries, swelling, or deformities.
- Evaluate motor function (movement capability), sensory function (ability to feel), and circulation in each limb.
Assessing Posterior
- Conduct a thorough assessment of the thorax and lumbar region for injuries or abnormalities.
- Look for any signs of trauma that may not be visible from the anterior view.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the key steps of trauma patient assessment in emergency medical situations. This quiz covers essential elements such as scene size-up, initial assessment, and more, helping you prepare for real-life scenarios in the field. Perfect for EMT students and professionals looking to refresh their skills.
