Chapter 27: Behavioral and Psychiatric Emergencies and Suicide

Question 1

A situation in which a person exhibits actions that are unacceptable to the patient, family, or community is known as:

Answer 1

A behavioral emergency

Question 2

The medical condition most likely to cause a rapid onset of erratic behavior, dizziness, and profuse perspiration is:

Answer 2

Low blood sugar

Question 3

In which of the following medical conditions is cyanosis (blue or grey skin) most likely to be one of the signs?

Answer 3

Lack of oxygen

Question 4

The medical condition most likely to cause confusion, impaired speech, paralysis of extremities on one side, and vomiting is:

Answer 4

Stroke

Question 5

The first step an EMT takes in a behavioral emergency is to:

Answer 5

Perform a careful scene size-up

Question 6

A medical condition that can closely mimic a psychiatric condition is:

Answer 6

Low blood sugar

Question 7

In talking with a behavioral patient, an EMT should take all of the following actions EXCEPT:
- A. Identifying themselves
- B. Avoiding direct eye contact
- C. Being as honest as possible
- D. Standing at least 3 feet from the patient

Answer 7

Avoiding direct eye contact

Question 8

The highest suicide rates have been found in people ages:

Answer 8

15 to 25

Question 9

A patient who has attempted suicide in the past is:

Answer 9

More likely to commit suicide that one who has not

Question 10

Which of the following cannot order the restraint of an adult patient?
- A. Medical Direction
- B. The patient’s physician
- C. Law enforcement officials
- D. The patient’s family

Answer 10

The patient’s family

Question 11

[_______] is defined as the manner in which a person acts or performs.

Answer 11

Behavior

Question 12

A(n) [______________] exists when a person exhibits abnormal behavior.

Answer 12

Behavioral emergency

Question 13

There are many [________] and [________] conditions as well as psychological conditions that are likely to alter a patient’s behavior.

Answer 13

Medical; Traumatic

Question 14

By acting in a calm manner, an EMT is applying [____________] techniques to a behavioral emergency.

Answer 14

Crisis management

Question 15

In providing patient care during a behavioral emergency, an EMT should treat any life-threatening conditions during the [___________].

Answer 15

Primary assessment

Question 16

In talking with a patient experiencing a behavioral emergency, avoid unnecessary [_________] and quick [_________].

Answer 16

Physical contact; Movements

Question 17

Whenever you are called to care for a patient who has attempted suicide, your first concern must be [__________].

Answer 17

Your own safety

Question 19

Your assessment of the aggressive or hostile patient might not go beyond the [_________] phase.

Answer 19

Primary assessment

Question 20

Patients who have been improperly restrained may die of a type of breathing impairment known as [___________].

Answer 20

Positional asphyxia

Question 21

List 7 medical and traumatic conditions that are likely to alter a person’s behavior

Answer 21

• Low blood sugar
• Lack of oxygen
• Inadequate blood to the brain or stroke
• Mind-altering substances
• Environmental temperature extremes
• Head trauma
• Seizures

Question 22

List at least 8 general rules for dealing with a patient who is experiencing a behavioral or psychiatric emergency

Answer 22

• Identify yourself and your role
• Speak slowly and clearly
• Make eye contact with the patient
• Listen to the patient
• Do not be judgmental
• Use positive body language
• Be alert for changes in the patients emotional status
• Do not enter the patients personal space
• Use restraints to prevent harm if necessary
• Acknowledge the patients feelings

Question 23

TRUE/FALSE: During a behavioral emergency, an EMT should only call the police as a last resort.

Answer 23

False

Question 24

TRUE/FALSE: When dealing with a behavior patient, always consider that the condition may be caused by a medical or traumatic condition.

Answer 24

True

Question 25

TRUE/FALSE: Whenever an EMT is called to the scene of a suicide attempt, the first concern should be for the patient’s safety.

Answer 25

False

Question 26

TRUE/FALSE: A person who has exhibited a sudden improvement from depression is a low risk for suicide.

Answer 26

False

Question 27

TRUE/FALSE: If a patients fear or aggression increases, an EMT should not push the issue of transport.

Answer 27

True

Question 28

TRUE/FALSE: In treating a behavioral emergency, an EMT should not follow the patient into the kitchen.

Answer 28

True

Question 29

TRUE/FALSE: Once a patient is acting rationally, an EMT may remove soft restraints.

Answer 29

False

Question 30

TRUE/FALSE: Patients can die from improper placement of restraints.

Answer 30

True

Question 31

TRUE/FALSE: Aggressive behavior is a valid reason not to assess the patient.

Answer 31

False

Question 32

TRUE/FALSE: A psychiatric patient who refused emergency care or transport is a significant medical/legal risk for EMS agencies and EMTs.

Answer 32

True