Chapter 18 Flashcards
Altered Mental Status
Altered Mental Status
Significant change in consciousness or awareness.
Reticular Activating System
Network of nerve cells regulating wakefulness.
Cerebral Hemisphere
One of two halves of the brain.
Coma
Unresponsive state with no reaction to stimuli.
Structural Causes
Altered mental status from brain lesions or damage.
Toxic-Metabolic Causes
Altered mental status from toxins or metabolic issues.
Brain Tumor
Abnormal growth affecting brain function.
Hemorrhage
Bleeding in or around the brain.
Degenerative Disease
Progressive loss of brain function over time.
Severe Hypoxia
Critical lack of oxygen to the brain.
Abnormal Blood Glucose
High or low blood sugar affecting consciousness.
Liver Failure
Inability of the liver to function properly.
Kidney Failure
Inadequate kidney function affecting body balance.
Poisoning
Toxic substances causing altered mental status.
Shock
Critical condition from inadequate blood flow.
CNS Depressants
Drugs that reduce brain activity, e.g., narcotics.
Post Seizure
Altered state following a seizure episode.
Cardiac Rhythm Disturbance
Irregular heartbeat affecting blood flow to brain.
Stroke
Interruption of blood supply to the brain.
Scene Size-Up
Initial assessment to identify potential causes.
Mechanism of Injury
Circumstances leading to physical harm.
Airway Management
Ensuring patient can breathe adequately.
Positive Pressure Ventilation
Assisted breathing for patients with inadequate ventilation.
Tidal Volume
Amount of air moved in one breath.