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Questions and Answers
What is the recommended action if a patient is unconscious?
What is the recommended action if a patient is unconscious?
What term is being promoted to help the public understand the urgency of stroke symptoms?
What term is being promoted to help the public understand the urgency of stroke symptoms?
What characterizes Type I Diabetes Mellitus?
What characterizes Type I Diabetes Mellitus?
How can Type II Diabetes Mellitus typically be managed?
How can Type II Diabetes Mellitus typically be managed?
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What condition can result from chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes?
What condition can result from chronic hyperglycemia in diabetes?
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What is a potential consequence of untreated dehydration?
What is a potential consequence of untreated dehydration?
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What is the most common cause of internal bleeding?
What is the most common cause of internal bleeding?
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What is known to be life-threatening and characterized by low blood sugar?
What is known to be life-threatening and characterized by low blood sugar?
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In diabetes, what is a major long-term effect of chronic hyperglycemia?
In diabetes, what is a major long-term effect of chronic hyperglycemia?
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What indicates hyperglycemia in a diabetic patient?
What indicates hyperglycemia in a diabetic patient?
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What is the primary cause of shock?
What is the primary cause of shock?
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What symptoms might a patient experiencing orthostatic hypotension display?
What symptoms might a patient experiencing orthostatic hypotension display?
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Which of the following is a key first aid step when managing a burn?
Which of the following is a key first aid step when managing a burn?
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What is the Heimlich maneuver used for?
What is the Heimlich maneuver used for?
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What is a common symptom of autonomic dysreflexia?
What is a common symptom of autonomic dysreflexia?
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Which of the following is an effective immediate management step for a patient in cardiac arrest?
Which of the following is an effective immediate management step for a patient in cardiac arrest?
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What should be avoided when treating a seizure patient?
What should be avoided when treating a seizure patient?
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When managing external bleeding, what is the best first step?
When managing external bleeding, what is the best first step?
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What physiological change leads to decreased cardiac output during orthostatic hypotension?
What physiological change leads to decreased cardiac output during orthostatic hypotension?
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Which type of shock results from a low circulating blood volume?
Which type of shock results from a low circulating blood volume?
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Study Notes
Basic Principles of Management in a Medical Emergency
- Understanding proper management of medical emergencies is crucial for patient safety and effective intervention.
Signs, Symptoms, and General Management of Selected Medical Emergencies
External Bleeding/Lacerations
- Immediate pressure applied to control bleeding.
- Clean the wound to prevent infection.
- Use sterile dressings to cover lacerations.
Shock
- Defined as inadequate blood pressure and oxygen delivery to tissues.
- Types of shock include hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, and obstructive.
- Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weakness, and confusion.
Orthostatic (Postural) Hypotension
- Characterized by a drop in blood pressure upon changing positions.
- Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and potential syncope (fainting).
- At-risk patients should rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Fractures
- Stabilize the fracture site to prevent further injury.
- Assess for vascular and neurological compromise.
- Seek immediate medical attention if needed.
Burns
- Initial focus: prevention of infection and pain management.
- Cool the burn area with running water if available.
- Cover the burn with a sterile dressing to protect and reduce shock.
Seizures
- Ensure the patient’s safety to prevent injury during the seizure.
- Post-seizure, maintain patient privacy and gather information about duration and characteristics.
Choking
- Administer the Heimlich maneuver if the patient is unable to breathe.
- Follow up with CPR if the patient becomes unconscious.
Autonomic Dysreflexia
- A medical emergency in patients with spinal cord injuries causing exaggerated sympathetic responses.
- Monitor and relieve the noxious stimulus (e.g., bladder distention, skin irritation).
Cardiac Arrest/Myocardial Infarction (MI)
- MI causes tissue death in the heart due to insufficient blood flow.
- Conscious patients should sit comfortably and receive oxygen if available.
- Unconscious patients require immediate CPR; call 911 first before intervention.
Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA)
- Early symptoms include facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulties.
- Quick intervention with TPA can minimize damage if administered within 3 hours.
- Public education on symptoms is vital; termed "brain attack" for better recognition.
Internal Bleeding
- Often results from trauma, requiring immediate assessment and intervention.
- Signs include bruising, pain, and abdominal swelling.
Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
- Chronic condition marked by high blood sugar due to insulin production issues.
- Type I (IDDM): requires insulin injections for management.
- Type II (NIDDM): often managed through diet, exercise, and occasionally oral medications (e.g., hypoglycemics).
Hypoglycemia
- Life-threatening condition with low blood sugar levels.
- Symptoms include confusion, sweating, and fainting; requires quick glucose administration.
Hyperglycemia
- High blood sugar levels can lead to diabetic coma if untreated.
- Monitor blood glucose levels and respond accordingly.
Dehydration
- Results from excessive water loss or insufficient intake.
- Can lead to hypovolemia and subsequent shock if untreated; signs include dry skin, lethargy, and rapid pulse.
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Description
This quiz covers essential principles of management during medical emergencies, focusing on external bleeding and shock. Reference materials include Fairchild's Chapter 12, providing in-depth insights into signs, symptoms, and general management of selected medical emergencies. Prepare to test your knowledge on the critical aspects of emergency medical care.
