CHAP 12

Question 1

oxygen saturation (SpO2)

Answer 1

the ratio of the amount of oxygen present in the blood to the amount that could be carried, expressed as percentage

Question 2

pulse oximeter

Answer 2

an electronic device for determining the amount of oxygen carried in the blood, known as oxygen saturation (SpO2)

Question 3

Name the vital signs

Answer 3

pulse, skin color, skin temp, skin condition, (plus cap refill in infants and children); pupils, and blood pressure.

Question 4

Explain why the vitals should be taken more than once

Answer 4

Because the patients condition may change while in your care. You should repeat vitals every 15 minutes on stable patients. Every 5 minutes for unstable patients. Repeat vitals after every medical intervention.

Question 5

How much time should the EMT spend looking for the pulse when the radial pulse is absent or weak?

Answer 5

Do not spend more than a few seconds before check the other arm or artery such as the brachial or carotid.

Question 6

How should you react when the blood pressure monitor gives a reading that is extremely different from the previous readings?

Answer 6

Always repeat the procedures, if there is ever a question.

Question 7

How can you get an accurate pulse oximeter reading on a patient with thick artificial nails

Answer 7

remove nail polish, or artificial nail. If you can’t or too thick, may have to attach probe to the earlobe or toes.