First Aid Respiratory Distress Response

Questions and Answers

What is the normal range of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in the blood?

4.5 to 6 mg/100 mL

8 to 25 mg/100 mL (correct)

Up to 50 mg/100 mL

0.6 to 1.5 mg/100 mL

Why is it essential to check BUN and creatinine levels before an intravenous pyelogram?

To determine the patient's body temperature

To determine the patient's blood sugar level

To determine the patient's blood pressure

To forecast the possibility of contrast media-induced renal effects (correct)

What is the normal range of creatinine in the blood?

4.5 to 6 mg/mL

0.6 to 1.5 mg/mL (correct)

Up to 50 mg/mL

8 to 25 mg/mL

What can be done to reduce the viscosity of contrast media?

Warming Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to warm contrast media to body temperature?

To reduce its viscosity Signup and view all the answers

What is a common problem associated with iodinated contrast material at normal room temperatures?

It becomes too thick and sticky Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checking BUN and creatinine levels prior to an intravenous pyelogram?

To forecast the possibility of contrast media-induced renal effects Signup and view all the answers

What happens when BUN levels are increased?

Renal function decreases Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to take a scout film prior to an upper GI exam?

To check for any residual barium from a previous BE. Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with pain in the area of the left fourth and fifth metatarsals. The requisition, however, requests a left ankle exam. What should the radiographer do?

Consult with the referring physician to clarify the exam request. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a correct statement regarding handwashing and skin care in a radiography setting?

Any cracks or abrasions on the hands should be left uncovered to facilitate healing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important precaution in the practice of aseptic technique?

Thorough handwashing with soap and water. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to follow aseptic technique in a radiography setting?

To minimize the risk of infection for both the patient and the radiographer. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about handwashing in a radiography setting is TRUE?

Hands should be washed before and after each patient examination, as well as after any contact with contaminated surfaces. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended temperature for handwashing in a radiography setting?

Warm water. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to use paper towels to open and close faucets in a radiography setting?

Paper towels are more hygienic and prevent the spread of microorganisms. Signup and view all the answers

Which medication is used to treat cardiac fibrillation?

Digitoxin Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Hydrocortisone?

To treat inflammation and allergies Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario is the Heimlich maneuver used?

When a person is choking Signup and view all the answers

What is a key indicator that the Heimlich maneuver should be performed?

The person is unable to speak or cough Signup and view all the answers

Where should pressure be applied during the Heimlich maneuver?

Midway between the navel and the xiphoid tip Signup and view all the answers

How is the Heimlich maneuver modified for infants?

By using a back blow followed by chest thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is a vasodilator?

A medication that dilates blood vessels Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is TRUE about the Heimlich maneuver?

It is used to dislodge an object from the airway Signup and view all the answers

What method should be used to open the airway if a spinal cord injury is suspected?

Perform the jaw-thrust method Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action a rescuer should take if a victim shows no breathing?

Administer mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended compression rate for adults during CPR?

80 to 100 compressions per minute Signup and view all the answers

Which action should a radiographer avoid when transferring patients to prevent back strain?

Bend at the waist and pull Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered the least toxic contrast medium?

Barium sulfate Signup and view all the answers

What is an effective technique to use when transferring a patient from a stretcher to an x-ray table?

Pull the patient to reduce friction Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if ventilation fails after two rescue breaths?

Check for a pulse Signup and view all the answers

What should a rescuer do while listening for breathing sounds?

Observe the rise and fall of the chest Signup and view all the answers

What are the key symptoms of anaphylaxis?

Urticaria, respiratory distress, vascular collapse Signup and view all the answers

What could potentially cause anaphylaxis?

Ingestion or injection of a sensitizing agent Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for a radiographer to follow before entering a contact isolation room?

Wear gown, gloves, mask, and cap Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following steps is appropriate after performing a mobile x-ray in a contact isolation room?

Clean the mobile x-ray unit with disinfectant Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in patient instructions following a barium enema examination?

Increase fluid and fiber intake for several days Signup and view all the answers

What should patients be informed about stool color after a barium enema?

Changes in stool color will occur until barium is fully evacuated Signup and view all the answers

In this context, what does MI stand for?

Myocardial Infarction Signup and view all the answers

What is the common risk associated with myocardial infarction?

Vascular collapse Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Airway Management

Open the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin.
Use the jaw-thrust method if spinal injury is suspected, avoiding neck movement.
Listen for breathing sounds and observe chest movements.
If breathing is absent, pinch the nose and deliver two mouth-to-mouth breaths.
Implement the Heimlich maneuver if chest rise doesn’t occur after breaths.
Check for pulse in the carotid artery; if absent, perform chest compressions.
Compression rates: 80-100/min for adults; at least 100/min for infants.

Patient Transfer Techniques

To minimize back strain when moving patients, always pull rather than push.
Do not bend at the waist while pulling; utilize your biceps for strength.
Keep the patient as close as possible before lifting.

Contrast Media and Safety

Barium sulfate is the least toxic contrast medium due to its inert nature.
Iodinated contrast media are absorbed by the body, unlike barium sulfate.
Normal blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are 8 to 25 mg/100 mL; elevated levels signal possible renal function issues.
Warming iodinated contrast media before use decreases viscosity, facilitating injection.

Infection Control and Hand Hygiene

Handwashing is crucial after each patient examination to maintain aseptic techniques.
Do not bend or ignore any skin cracks or abrasions; proper care is necessary for healing.
In aseptic practice, a thorough hand cleaning process is essential.

Emergency Response

Anaphylaxis can result from exposure to drugs, vaccines, or allergens, leading to life-threatening reactions.
Myocardial Infarction (MI) occurs due to blockage in coronary arteries, highlighting the need for quick identification and treatment.

Patient Care Responsibilities

When patient complaints differ from the examination requisition, radiographers should verify with the referring physician to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.
Ensuring the correct examination is performed is vital for patient safety.

Isolation Procedures

In contact isolation, the radiographer must wear gown, gloves, mask, and cap.
Clean the mobile x-ray unit after exiting a patient's isolation room to maintain hygiene, not before entering.

Post-Examination Instructions

After a barium enema (BE), instruct patients to increase fluid and fiber intake.
Changes in stool color are to be expected until all barium is expelled.

Heimlich Maneuver Technique

The Heimlich maneuver is specifically for people who are choking.
Confirm airway obstruction by checking if the individual can speak or cough.
For adults: Stand behind the victim, perform abdominal thrusts by placing a fist midway between navel and xiphoid process.
For infants: Use back blows and chest thrusts to dislodge objects safely.

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Description

Learn the steps to open the airway of a victim and check for breathing sounds in a medical emergency, including modifications for potential spinal cord injuries.