Environmental Emergencies Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Heat stroke is less severe than heat exhaustion.

False

Active warming for hypothermia includes using warm fluids and bear huggers.

True

Witnessing tea-colored urine can indicate severe dehydration.

True

Drowning in warm water increases the likelihood of recovery.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Cat bites are generally considered to be more dangerous than dog bites due to the risk of infection.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

For puncture wounds over 12 hours old, it is not necessary to administer antibiotics.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

In drowning victims, it is critical to apply a c collar to prevent potential neck injuries.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hypothermia can thicken the blood and increase the risk of clots and heart attacks.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Chemotherapy can lead to metabolic acidosis due to tumor lysis syndrome.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Excessive water gain in SIADH can result in an increase in sodium levels.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

When treating spinal cord compression, MRI is considered a secondary diagnostic tool.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Parkland formula is used to assess fluid requirements for patients with burns.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intubation should be performed only after assessing for burn injuries to the mouth and throat.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the Emergency Severity Index (ESI), level 1 indicates the least severe condition.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

The primary survey in trauma nursing includes assessing airway, breathing, and circulation.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Good Samaritan law requires individuals to stop and assist at an accident scene.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Severe sepsis is characterized by a lactate level greater than 4.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the primary survey, it is essential to stabilize a patient before transferring them to another facility.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hypercalcemia in cancer patients occurs when calcium levels are greater than 10.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Thrombocytopenia indicates an elevated white blood cell count in oncology patients.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Respiratory complications in septic patients can lead to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Neurogenic shock occurs in injuries at T6 and above, leading to decreased cardiac output and warm skin in extremities.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Injuries at C3, C4, and C5 do not require respiratory support.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Anomic dysreflexia is a life-threatening condition associated with injuries at T6 and above, characterized by severe headaches and high blood pressure.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tension pneumothorax is a minor condition that can be managed without immediate intervention.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flail chest is indicated by paradoxical movement of the chest wall and is associated with multiple rib fractures.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Compartment syndrome can occur with long bone fractures and may lead to rhabdomyolysis.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has no association with PTSD.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

It is advised to remove an impaled object from a patient to prevent further injury.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Epinephrine should be administered to all patients who have been stung, regardless of their allergic status.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of poisoning, it is safe to wash off the poison immediately without considering the interaction of water and powder.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Charcoal is an effective treatment for all patients who have ingested poison.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Opioid overdose may present with symptoms like pinpoint pupils and respiratory depression.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Secondary spinal cord injuries can be observed immediately after a spinal cord injury.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

Spinal shock results in loss of reflexes and sensation below the injury site.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

The phrenic nerve plays a crucial role in regulating respiratory function.

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

Once spinal cord injury occurs, the damage can be assessed immediately without waiting for the swelling to subside.

<p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential complication of administering Epogen for red blood cell growth?

<p>Hypertension</p> Signup and view all the answers

What electrolyte imbalance is typically observed 24 to 48 hours after chemotherapy in tumor lysis syndrome?

<p>Hypocalcemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant clinical feature of SIADH that requires careful correction?

<p>Mental status changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern when a patient is diagnosed with superior vena cava syndrome?

<p>Obstruction of blood flow leading to dyspnea</p> Signup and view all the answers

What intervention is critical for patients with burns to the mouth and throat?

<p>Perform immediate intubation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following treatments is essential for heat stroke management?

<p>Provide 100% oxygen</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when monitoring a patient with hypothermia?

<p>Warming the patient slowly prevents rapid temperature changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of drowning, what is an important reason to use a c collar?

<p>To avoid potential neck injuries</p> Signup and view all the answers

What observation might suggest severe dehydration in a patient experiencing heat-related illness?

<p>Tea-colored urine</p> Signup and view all the answers

When treating a patient with hypothermia, which method is categorized as active warming?

<p>Using bear huggers</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with cat bites?

<p>High potential for deep puncture wounds</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key component to monitor in patients with hypothermia?

<p>Urine output and acidosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it preferential to drown in cold water rather than warm water?

<p>Cold water slows down bodily functions, increasing survival chances</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the respiratory issues associated with injuries at C3 to C5?

<p>Need for respiratory support</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common sign of neurogenic shock in patients with injuries at T6 and above?

<p>Flushed warm skin in extremities</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition arises due to a T6 or above spinal injury, characterized by severe headaches and high blood pressure?

<p>Anomic dysreflexia</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a hallmark sign of tension pneumothorax?

<p>Tracheal deviation</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should not be done in the case of an impaled object?

<p>Remove the object</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can long bone fractures potentially cause?

<p>Severe blood loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is indicated by paradoxical movement of the chest wall?

<p>Flail chest</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the life-long consequences that may follow a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?

<p>Long-term rehabilitation needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done first when treating a patient who has been stung by an insect?

<p>Remove rings and watches to prevent swelling.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the case of an opioid overdose, which symptom is a key indicator that requires immediate attention?

<p>Pinpoint pupils.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct protocol for managing poisoning through ingestion?

<p>Call poison control for guidance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major concern with secondary spinal cord injuries?

<p>They can lead to permanent damage and are not immediately visible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor determines whether a patient can safely receive activated charcoal after ingesting poison?

<p>Presence of any abdominal issues or bowel obstruction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of spinal shock?

<p>Loss of sensation below the level of injury.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be closely monitored in a patient who has sustained a spinal cord injury?

<p>Ripple effects on respiratory function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the treatment of insect stings in a non-allergic individual?

<p>Only local treatment with ice is required.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus during the primary survey in trauma nursing?

<p>Stabilizing the airway, breathing, and circulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the Emergency Severity Index (ESI), which level indicates the most severe condition?

<p>Level 1</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key intervention for managing severe sepsis indicated by a lactate level greater than 4?

<p>Initiating aggressive fluid resuscitation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about thrombocytopenia is true?

<p>It presents a risk for bleeding and injury.</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to trauma nursing principles, what should be done first when managing uncontrolled circulation?

<p>Control the bleeding</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the Good Samaritan law important in emergency situations?

<p>It allows bystanders to avoid liability when helping.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is indicated by hypercalcemia in cancer patients, particularly those with bone cancer?

<p>Calcium levels greater than 12.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific respiratory complication should be monitored closely in septic patients?

<p>Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What electrolyte imbalance should be expected 24 to 48 hours after chemotherapy due to tumor lysis syndrome?

<p>Hyperphosphatemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major risk associated with administering Epogen for red blood cell growth?

<p>Hypertension</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom is commonly associated with severe SIADH?

<p>Mental status changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when a patient presents with superior vena cava syndrome?

<p>Dyspnea and shortness of breath</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended immediate intervention for a patient with burns in the mouth and throat?

<p>Intubate the patient</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of assessment during the primary survey in trauma nursing?

<p>Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components is essential to manage uncontrolled circulation during the primary survey?

<p>Fixing the bleed first</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of sepsis, a lactate level greater than 4 indicates what condition?

<p>Severe sepsis</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Good Samaritan law in emergency situations?

<p>It requires individuals to stay at the scene until authorities arrive once they assist</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following parameters is crucial for assessing kidney function during sepsis?

<p>Urinary output of 0.5 ml/kg/hr</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended intervention for managing hypercalcemia in cancer patients?

<p>Provide bisphosphonates to maintain calcium in bones</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common risk associated with neutropenia in oncology patients?

<p>Potential for severe infections</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the primary survey, what is the first step regarding patient exposure?

<p>Get the patient naked to observe for injuries</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most critical initial intervention for a patient experiencing heat stroke?

<p>Initiate cold water immersion</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of hypothermia, what is the acceptable body temperature range before considering time of death?

<p>86 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common complication should be monitored for in a patient suffering from hypothermia?

<p>Arrhythmias</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of drowning is associated with a higher chance of recovery?

<p>Cold water drowning</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific assessment should be performed for a patient with a cat bite?

<p>Inspect for puncture wounds</p> Signup and view all the answers

When managing a drowning victim, what is the most vital step to ensure their safety?

<p>Apply a cervical collar</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of bites raises greater concern for infection due to the mechanism of injury?

<p>Cat bites due to sharp teeth</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a caregiver monitor in a patient with heat-related illness?

<p>Urine output for color and volume</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant symptom of neurogenic shock in patients with T6 and above injuries?

<p>Flushed warm skin in the extremities</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done first when a person is stung and experiencing swelling?

<p>Remove any restrictive items like rings or watches.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following injuries is associated with the highest risk of respiratory issues?

<p>C5 injury</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is most associated with opioid overdose?

<p>Pinpoint pupils.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is defined by severe hypertension, headache, and nausea in a patient with a T6 injury or above?

<p>Anomic dysreflexia</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of poisoning, why is it important to brush off powder before washing the patient?

<p>To avoid a chemical reaction that may occur.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary immediate treatment required for a tension pneumothorax?

<p>Needle decompression</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of not addressing secondary spinal cord injuries quickly?

<p>Permanent damage due to swelling and ischemia.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should a patient with a flail chest present clinically?

<p>Paradoxical chest wall movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention should be prioritized when a patient shows signs of spinal shock?

<p>Monitor and stabilize ABCs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate management strategy for an impaled object in an abdominal injury?

<p>Leave the object in place</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which complication is directly associated with long bone fractures?

<p>Severe blood loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

What criteria should be considered before administering charcoal to a patient who has ingested poison?

<p>The patient's bowel sounds and any abdominal issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptom would suggest the development of compartment syndrome from a fracture?

<p>Severe pain worsening with movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration in managing edema of the spinal cord?

<p>Recognizing and intervening within 24 hours to minimize damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What commonly occurs after a spinal cord injury due to swelling?

<p>Loss of sensation and reflexes below the injury level.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Environmental Emergencies

  • Heat stroke vs. heat exhaustion: Heat stroke is worse; individuals cannot sweat.
  • Heat stroke treatment:
    • Lower core temperature (cold water immersion if possible).
    • Ice packs.
    • Cold fluids.
    • Monitor temperature and dysrhythmias.
    • Monitor breathing (ABCs).
    • Monitor urine output (watch for tea-colored urine- think rhabdo and dehydration).

Hypothermia

  • Effect on blood: Thickens blood, causing clots and potential heart attacks/PEs.
  • Treatment:
    • Remove cold clothes.
    • Use warm blankets.
    • Active warming (warm fluids, warm hugs).
    • Passive warming (blanket, warming the room).
    • Warm body temperature to 86-90 degrees.
    • Monitoring ABCs, cardiac monitor, urine output (due to dehydration/acidosis).

Cold Water/Warm Water Drowning

  • Cold water drowning: Slows everything down, potentially allowing for resuscitation.
  • Injuries: Pulmonary edema & ARDS (decreased surfactant, alveoli cap membrane damage).
  • Treatment:
    • Cervical collar.
    • Monitor breathing/airway.
    • Oxygen/ABCs.
    • Warm patient if in cold water.

Bites

  • Cat bites: Sharp teeth, puncture wounds, infection concern.
  • Dog bites: Larger mouths, larger areas affected, infection concern.
  • Antibiotics: Important for wounds close to joints and wounds above 6-12 hours old.
  • Rabies: Prophylactic treatment if from a wild animal; know animal's vaccination status.

Stings

  • Removal: Use blade/flat object.
  • Allergic reactions: Monitor for allergies, administer antihistamines, steroids.
  • Prevention of swelling: Remove restrictive items like rings/watches.

Poisoning

  • Decontamination: Brush off powder before showering, focus on ABCs first if breathing/cardiac issues are present
  • Ingesting poison: Call poison control; they will direct you, and potentially call back to assess the patients.
  • Treatment: Activated charcoal binds toxins for removal.
  • Contraindications: Not applicable for patients with bowel issues, hypoactive bowel sounds, bowel obstruction).

Opioid Overdose

  • Symptoms: Pinpoint pupils; loss of consciousness; respiratory depression, seizures, hypoxia.
  • Treatment: NARCAN; monitor ABCs

Spinal Cord Injuries

  • Cause: Common in males, often due to automobile accidents.
  • Observation: Observe for obvious injuries, like head lacerations.
  • Secondary concerns: More concerning; permanent damage due to edema, ischemia, and inflammation.
  • Phrenic nerve: Controls diaphragm; nerve damage can disrupt breathing.
  • Spinal shock: Loss of deep tendon reflex, sphincter reflex, and below injury level sensation and paralysis; happens soon after injury and swelling prevents clear diagnosis.
  • Neurogenic shock: Damage to T6 and above results in issues with regulating temperature and blood pressure.

Neurogenic Shock

  • Characteristics: T6 and above spinal cord injuries can lead to decreased cardiac output, venous pooling, systolic BP below 90, temperature dysregulation (warm to cold skin), decreased respiratory function from C3-C5.

Respiratory Issues

  • Levels C3-C5: Affect diaphragm function.
  • T6 and higher injury: Can result in bradycardia (slow heart rate), or dysreflexia (elevated blood pressure & other symptoms).

Trauma

  • Tension pneumothorax: Deadly; shifted mediastinum, affects respiratory/cardiac; requires urgent decompression (needle/chest tube).
  • Flail chest: Paradoxical movement of chest wall; multiple broken ribs.

Abdominal Injuries

  • Do not pull out impaled object.

TBI

  • Management: Life-long support; prioritize sleep, routine, stress triggers, and avoidance of substances that trigger symptoms.

Trauma Nursing

  • ESI (Emergency Severity Index): 5 levels, 1 being the most severe.

Primary and Secondary Surveys

  • Primary: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability (GCS, pupils).
  • Secondary survey: Focus on the patient's condition and complete evaluation.
  • Priorities: Control uncontrolled circulation first (fix the bleed, then move to other issues).

L-lab work, m-monitor, n-NG or OG tube (facial trauma), o- oxygen, p-pain or pharmaceutical, non-pharmaceutical.

Sepsis

  • Levels: SIRS, sepsis, severe sepsis, sepsis shock.
  • Lactate: Elevated (above 4) indicates severe sepsis.
  • Respiratory: Respiratory system may be severely affected by hypoxic issues.
  • GI: Can be affected by paralytic ileus.
  • Kidney function: Kidney failure (renal failure) may be observed if blood is not flowing correctly.

Oncology Emergencies

  • Neutropenia: Low WBC count.
  • Infections: Susceptibility to infection is high.
  • Thrombocytopenia: Risk of bleeding due to issues with blood platelets.
  • Hypercalcemia: Elevated calcium levels.
  • Causes: Often related to cancer.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome

  • Symptom triggers: Chemo can trigger tumor lysis syndrome (TLS).
  • Symptoms: Hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia.
  • Timeframe: Symptoms happen within 24-48 hours after treatment.
  • Kidney function concern: Kidneys are at risk.
  • Fluid/electrolyte management: Hydration is important before chemo.

Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

  • Symptom trigger: Obstruction of blood flow to the upper body; blood backs up in the upper extremities, causing swelling and higher BP in the upper extremities.
  • Additional symptoms: Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing (dyspnea)

Spinal Cord Compression

  • Symptom trigger: Tumor in the spinal cord.
  • Symptoms: Severe pain, usually in supine position but better when sitting up; urgent need for MRI.
  • Treatment: Usually requires steroids, MRI, and possibly surgery or radiation.

Burns

  • Parkland formula: Used in burn management.
  • Intubation: Necessary if oral burn swelling occurs.

SIADH

  • Excessive water retention: Can lead to mental status changes, decreased reflexes; sodium levels below 125 are concerning.
  • Correcting sodium imbalances: Should not be done too quickly).

Other

  • Fact-focused abdominal sonography for trauma (FAST): Ultrasound used to assess for internal bleeding in trauma patients.

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Description

Test your knowledge on critical environmental emergencies including heat stroke, hypothermia, and drowning. This quiz covers symptoms, treatments, and monitoring techniques essential for effective first aid. Assess your understanding of these life-threatening conditions and the appropriate responses.

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