BLS Section 4 AI

Question 1

What should a paramedic be aware of when dealing with a neonatal patient?

Answer 1

The mother may also require care

Consider the mother’s health in conjunction with the neonate.

Question 2

During the primary survey of a neonatal patient, what three criteria should be assessed?

Answer 2

• Is term gestation
• Has good tone
• Has unlaboured breathing

Question 3

What should a paramedic recognize if a neonatal patient does not meet the criteria for term gestation, good tone, and unlaboured breathing?

Answer 3

The potential need for neonatal resuscitation

This should be done in conjunction with the ALS PCS.

Question 4

What types of information should a paramedic attempt to determine regarding a neonatal patient’s history?

Answer 4

• Brief history of the pregnancy
• Details surrounding labour
• Details regarding delivery
• Who delivered the neonatal patient
• Neonatal patient’s colour, breathing, and activity level
• Clinical care received since delivery

Question 5

What should a paramedic do if the neonatal patient has just been delivered?

Answer 5

• Reassess the mother
• Wipe the nose and mouth of the neonatal patient
• Clamp and cut umbilical cord
• Position the neonatal patient supine on a firm surface
• Record time of delivery
• Tag/tape the neonatal patient’s arm
• Attempt skin-to-skin contact with the mother
• Swaddle the neonatal patient
• Maintain normal body temperature
• Take an Apgar score
• Initiate rapid transport if Apgar score is less than seven

Question 6

What is the guideline for the positioning of a neonatal patient to establish a patent airway?

Answer 6

Position the neonatal patient supine with neck slightly extended

A small towel roll may be used under the shoulders.

Question 7

What are some life/limb/function threats to consider for a pregnant patient?

Answer 7

• Pre-eclampsia/eclampsia
• Prolapsed umbilical cord
• First trimester complications (e.g., spontaneous abortion)
• Second and third trimester complications (e.g., placental abruption)

Question 8

What should be prioritized when assessing a pregnant patient?

Answer 8

Maternal assessment and care

Question 9

What is a guideline for assuming pre-eclampsia in pregnant patients?

Answer 9

Blood pressure ≥140/90 beyond 20 weeks of gestation

Severe pre-eclampsia is defined as diastolic BP ≥110.

Question 10

What should a paramedic assess during the secondary survey for a pregnant patient?

Answer 10

• Abdomen for signs of trauma or complications
• Uterine height and contractions
• Fetal movements

Question 11

In what position should a pregnant patient be transported?

Answer 11

Left-lateral position

Question 12

What is the guideline for determining due date in pregnancy?

Answer 12

Last normal menstrual period – 3 months + 7 days

Question 13

What should be done before inspecting and examining the perineum of a pregnant patient?

Answer 13

Don sterile gloves

Question 14

What is the significance of a five-minute Apgar score less than seven?

Answer 14

Initiate rapid transport

Question 15

What should be noted when palpating the abdomen of a pregnant patient beyond 20 weeks of gestation?

Answer 15

• Uterine height
• Contractions
• Fetal movements

Question 16

Fill in the blank: Pre-eclampsia should be assumed for patients beyond 20 weeks of gestation with a blood pressure _______.

Answer 16

≥140/90

Question 17

True or False: The neonatal patient’s color, breathing, and level of activity should be assessed immediately after delivery.

Answer 17

True