Chapter 13- Emergency Medical Care for shock

Question 1

What should you do immediately upon realizing a patient may be in shock?

Answer 1

Begin immediate treatment for shock

Follow standard precautions and control all obvious external bleeding.

Question 2

What is the first step in controlling external bleeding?

Answer 2

Place dry, sterile dressings over the bleeding sites and secure with bandages

If direct pressure is not successful, apply a tourniquet proximal to the bleeding site.

Question 3

What should be maintained if there is a concern about neck or back injuries?

Answer 3

Spinal motion restriction

This is important to prevent further injury.

Question 4

What position should a patient be maintained in if they are in shock?

Answer 4

Supine position

Comforting and reassuring the patient is also crucial.

Question 5

True or False: Patients in shock should be allowed to eat or drink before being evaluated by a physician.

Answer 5

False

Never allow patients to eat or drink prior to evaluation.

Question 6

What should be done if time allows during transport for a patient with shock?

Answer 6

Splint individual extremity fractures

This minimizes pain, bleeding, and discomfort.

Question 7

Why is adequate ventilation important in the context of shock?

Answer 7

Inadequate ventilation may be a major factor in the development of shock

Always provide oxygen and assist with ventilations.

Question 8

What is the recommended way to prevent loss of body heat in a patient in shock?

Answer 8

Place blankets under and over the patient

Avoid external heat sources like hot water bottles. This could cause further vasodilation and decrease blood pressure even more.

Question 9

What is the Golden Period in trauma care?

Answer 9

The critically important period for early resuscitation and treatment of severely injured trauma patients

It emphasizes rapid evaluation, stabilization, and transport.

Question 10

What is the goal of EMS regarding on-scene time for trauma patients?

Answer 10

Limit on-scene time to 10 minutes or less

This is crucial for timely transport to the hospital.

Question 11

How often should a patient’s vital signs be recorded during treatment and transport?

Answer 11

Approximately every 5 minutes

This helps monitor the patient’s condition effectively.

Question 12

What should be done regarding patient communication during assessment, care, and transport?

Answer 12

Speak calmly and reassuringly to a conscious patient

This helps maintain patient comfort and reduces anxiety.