EMS Flashcards
The first step in initial patient assessment of a cardiac arrest includes checking for..
Responsiveness
Breathing
Pulse
- if unresponsive, determine presence, or absence of a pulse
if unresponsive patient is encountered you should next ?
Determine presence or absence of a pulse
During cardiac arrest, primary attention is paid to immediate…
Continuous chest compressions
and
Assessment of the patient’s cardiac rhythm
In cardiac arrest, the emphasis is on…
Continuous chest compressions
with adequate rate and death
Chest compressions involve compressing at a rate of..
100-120 compressions per minute
(Cardiac arrest)
One adult cycle is..
2 minutes of CPR
Between each rhythm check you should perform _____ minute of CPR
2 minutes
(Cardiac arrest)
Do not check for a pulse unless…
There is an organized rhythm on the monitor
and
an increase in the ETCO2 level of 20 mm or more
(Cardiac arrest)
Change the compressor (with manual compressions) after every..
2 minutes of CPR
(Cardiac arrest)
Minimize interruptions of chest compressions ..
Less than 10 seconds
Do not interrupt compressions, when..
Applying defibrillator pads
Establishing IV access
Delivering medications
Ventilate
Once the advanced airway is in place, you should next..
Attached CO2 sensor
&
Ventilate once every 6 seconds 10-12 bpm
If an automatic compression device (auto pulse) is available, do not apply until..
2 minutes of manual CPR have been performed
Or per department protocol
Automatic compression device auto pulse
3 steps
a. Do not interrupt a 2-minute cycle of compressions to place the device.
b. Set up and position the device during compressions and place it to begin the next
2-minute cycle of compressions.
c. For optimal performance, and easy transport, consider using a carry-all or backboard.
In order to minimize the time from stopping compressions and delivering the shock, as well as to minimize any interruptions in chest compressions, the monitor or AED should…
Be charged while continuing chest compressions
An advanced airway should be properly placed, when..
The patient is in respiratory arrest or prolonged PPV is required with a BVM or an automatic ventilator
__________ airway is placed in the initial set of compressions in cardiac arrest. It can be used in respiratory arrest and respiratory distress when there is no gag reflex.
Supraglottic airway
Supraglottic airways are contraindicated when..
Damaged tissue in the supraglottic area
&
if there is a high risk of aspiration
Example of Supraglottic airway is ..
I gel
__________ is no longer the primary airway in cardiac arrest
Endotracheal tube (ETT)
When is use of an ETT is acceptable ?
-On the initial advanced airway attempt
(If unsuccessful go to Supraglottic airway)
-When there is a high risk of aspiration
-When supraglottic airways are contraindicated
Ventilation should be done once every
6 seconds (10-12 BPM)
In a patient with a witnessed/unwitnessed cardiac arrest the emphasis is on..
Continuous compressions
and
Early defibrillation, if a shockable rhythm is present
Airway management can be deferred to the _____
Cycle of compressions, and can be safely managed with a quick placement of a supraglottic airway
Next cycle
Endotracheal intubation is preferred as the initial airway management intervention, when..
Upper airway inhalation burns (suspected)
Severe facial trauma
Vomittus in the mouth (presence of)
If you were going to use endotracheal intubation…
1) Attempt once after defibrillating and/or checking the rhythm.
2) If the vocal cords are not immediately visible, or the single attempt fails - immediately resume compressions and quickly insert a Supraglottic Airway without interrupting compressions.
3) Attach an ETCO sensor and monitor waveform capnography during resuscitation efforts to ensure proper placement of the Advanced Airway, and also for an increase of 20 mm or greater in the CO2 level, which is frequently an indicator of ROSC.
In what situations is early ventilation appropriate..
Respiratory arrest
Pediatric arrest
Unwitnessed arrest
Asystole/PEA
Near drowning
In cardiac arrest, what is the preferred vascular access ?
IO
However, if paramedic judgment suggests IV access is obtainable and can be performed within 30 to 60 seconds. Then IV access is acceptable and should be attempted once.
As a last resort, and if both Io and IV access are not successful, what route may be used?
Advanced airway route
Which medications can be given down the advanced airway route??
Epinephrine
Atropine
Narcan
2X the IV dose
Diluted with normal saline to a total of 10 ML
5 rapid ventilations to enhance the drug delivery
Avoid placing defibrillator pads over…
Pacemaker
Internal defibrillator
Transdermal medication patch
(AED)
If a pulse is present (ROSC), the next step is to…
Check for breathing then initiate post resuscitation care
Do not check for a pulse unless..
There is a organized rhythm on the monitor
&
There has been an increase in the ETCO2 level of 20MM or more
Zoll
SHOCK 1
SHOCK 2
SHOCK 3
200J
200j
200j
Lifespak
SHOCK 1
SHOCK 2
SHOCK 3
360j
360j
360j
MRX
Shock 1
Shock 2
Shock 3
150j
200j
200j
(Cardiac arrest)
A pulse check should be for no longer than ..
10 seconds
Double sequential defibrillation may be performed at the ______ defibrillation
5th defibrillation
Double sequential defibrillation
2 Zoll
2 MRX
1 Zoll or MRX & 1 lifepak
2 lifepak
2 Zoll - 400j
2 MRX - 400j
1 Zoll or MRX & 1 lifepak - 560j
2 lifepak- 720j
Attempt a double sequential defibrillation after _______ initial defibrillation have failed
After 4 initial defibrillation have failed
Double sequential defibrillation pads will be set in either the..
Anterior/Apex position or anterior/posterior position
The second set of pads should be placed in the alternative position
Same person will hit both shock buttons at the same time
Discharges should be done with an oral signal
All subsequent defibrillation should be at the same maximum joules
Ensure that ED personnel know that Max shocks have been delivered
Sodium bicarb may be administered earlier in the protocol if a pre-existing, metabolic acidosis is suspected such as…
Near drowning
Insulin dependent patients (diabetic keto acidosis)
Renal dialysis
Psychiatric medication OD
COCAINE INTOXICATION
PATIENT WITH EXCITED DELIRIUM
Magnesium sulfate 2G IO/IV should be considered in patience with…
-Torsades de pointes
-Recurrent ventricular fibrillation (V fib that occurs more than 5 seconds, after a successful defibrillation)
-Persistent ventricular fibrillation, not responsive to above medications
A clinical situation, where there is an organized rhythm other than ventricular tachycardia on the cardiac monitor in a patient without a palpable carotid pulse is known as…
PEA
The treatment for a patient with PEA will depend on…
The rhythm that presents on the monitor
The approach to Asystole as in PEA is…
CPR
Epinephrine
(H’s & T’s)
What is the best indicator of a viable Asystole ?
CO2 reading of 20 with good CPR on waveform capnography
If the patient is suspected to be in traumatic arrest, perform…
Bilateral chest decompression
All patients in PEA / Asystole Need oxygen..
Listen to lungs bilaterally as patient with ________ can present with a PEA situation
Tension pneumothorax
Kidney dialysis patients may present with a __________ cardiac rhythm without a carotid pulse these patients may have ____________
Slow and wide cardiac rhythm
High serum levels of potassium
Kidney dialysis patients with a slow and wide PEA rhythm should be treated with…
Sodium bicarbonate 1meq/kg
May repeat in 10 minutes at 0.5 meq/kg
IF NO RESPONSE ..
Flush the IO/IV line with at least 20 ML normal saline
Calcium chloride 1g slowly over 1 minute
Asystole must be confirmed in at least ..
2 leads
you must attach limb leads to perform this procedure
If no ROSC after _______ refer to death in the field protocol
30 minutes
PEA
H’s & T’s
• Hypovolemia: normal saline fluid challenge(s) / dopamine / rapid transport.
• Hypoxemia: confirm adequacy of oxygenation.
• Hydrogen lon Acidosis: administer sodium bicarbonate.
• Hypothermia: warm the patient.
• Hyperkalemia: sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride.
• Hypoglycemia: administer dextrose 50% (D50W).
• Tension Pneumothorax: perform needle decompression (bilateral chest decompression if trauma is suspected).
• Toxins / OD: contact Poison Control 1-800-222-1222 for antidote.
• Thrombus: (Coronary or Pulmonary) Clot Buster in the ER.
• Tamponade: (Cardiac) normal saline fluid challenge(s).
• Trauma: (Hypovolemia) normal saline fluid challenge(s)
Rad 57 is the ..
CO Monitor
The patients CO level is used to determine…
Transport and treatment options
Firefighters who develop an altered level of consciousness, and or hemodynamic instability, should be considered for possible..
Cyanide exposure (CN)
Carbon monoxide poisoning - signs and symptoms
• Dyspnea
• Headache
• Chest pain
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Altered mental status
• Death
Cyanide poisoning may result from..
3 types of exposure
Inhalation
Ingestion
Dermal exposure
Prior to administration of Cyanokit, smoke inhalation victims should be assessed for…
a. Exposure to fire or smoke in an enclosed area
b. Presence of soot around the mouth, nose, or oropharynx
c. Altered mental status
Cyanide poisoning treatment is based on..
A high clinical index of suspicion for CN poisoning
In addition to Cyanokit, treatment of cyanide poisoning must include…
a. Immediate attention to airway patency
b. Adequacy of oxygenation
c. Adequacy of hydration
d. Cardiovascular support
e. Management of any seizure activity
CO/CN
High risk situations
• Building fires, including salvage & overhaul
• Areas where generators are used or misused
• The report of symptomatic or unconscious patients in a car where the garage door is closed
• Areas where paint or varnish is stripped from furniture
• Areas where gasoline engines, gas powered heaters or water heaters are run with poor ventilation
• In some cases with symptomatic divers from contaminated air in their SCUBA tanks
• Indoor grills
• Hookah Bars
CO/CN
High-risk patients
• Elderly
• Children
• Pregnant women
• Patients with cardiac disease
• Patients with chronic lung disease
• Patients with chronically elevated CO levels (e.g., cigarette smokers)
Obtaining a CO level should routinely be done when evaluating vital signs of firefighters during..
Rehab
Inaccurate or unattainable CO readings can be caused by?
Poor perfusion states where circulation to the fingers is severely compromised
(CO exposure)
Apply finger probe to finger with capillary refill less than ..
5 seconds
(CO exposure)
Spco less than 3%
No further evaluation for SPCO needed
(CO exposure)
SPCO less than 12% with no symptoms ..
No further evaluation for SPCO needed
(CO exposure)
SPCO less than 12% with symptoms ..
transport on 100% O2 to nearest ER
(CO exposure)
SPCO 12% or greater, but less than 25% with symptoms or pregnant..
Transport on 100% O2 to a hyperbaric oxygen facility
(CO exposure)
SPCO 25% or greater..
Transport on 100% O2 to a hyperbaric oxygen facility
(CO exposure)
Treatment 4 steps ..
- Universal Initial Adult Patient Assessment / Care
- All patients should receive oxygen via NRB.
- Document the CO reading in your Patient Care Record.
- If condition does not improve or gets worse after treatment with 100% O2, consid: treating for Cyanide Poisoning with Cyanokit
Cardio pulmonary resuscitation will be initiated on all patients who have sustained a cardio pulmonary arrest, unless…
Do not resuscitate order
Obvious death
Irreversible death
CPR may be terminated if a valid DNRO ______ copy is presented after CPR was begun
Yellow copy
No ECG or attempts at resuscitation are necessary. In these patients. This is applicable to patients with signs of _________
Obvious death
Obvious death (no ecg)
Conditions..
a. Decapitation
b. Massive crush injury to head or torso
c. Incineration with black charring of the whole body
d. Evisceration/Expulsion from the body of vital organ(s): brain, heart, liver, both lungs
e. Hemicorpectomy (body cut in half through the torso)
f. General body decomposition
Patients with apparently irreversible death require asystole recorded on a cardiac monitor and confirmed in at least _______
2 leads
Signs of irreversible death include…
Rigor mortis - Hardening of the body muscles. This sign is not reliable for true death if the patient is a victim of hypothermia.
Livor Mortis - can start as soon as 30 minutes after death, and usually becomes fixed 6 to 8 hours after death
This sign is not reliable for true death if the patient is a victim of hypothermia..
Rigor mortis
Resuscitation efforts may be terminated in the field, if all of the following and conditions are met..
a. The event was not witnessed by emergency medical services personnel.
b. There is no Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC) after 30 minutes of resuscitation efforts.
c. Patients with asystole or an agonal terminal rhythm at the time of termination of CPR.
Resuscitation efforts may be withheld in any patient with ________ / ________ trauma who, based on the paramedics’ thorough primary patient assessment, is found upon the arrival of EMS at the scene.
Blunt trauma / penetrating trauma
apneic, pulseless, and without organized ECG activity (asystole)
Excluded from termination in the field..
Pediatric cardiac arrest
Obviously obviously pregnant woman cardiac arrest
unless the patient meets criteria for obvious death or apparently irreversible death or has a valid DNRO
When resuscitation is withheld or terminated at the scene, who is responsible for the body once the death has been determined..
The local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction
When resuscitation is withheld or terminated at the scene, and you are releasing the scene/body, you should document..
Officer/persons on scene. Assuming responsibility.
(Death in the field)
EPCR should include the following..
Reason for terminating or not initiating resuscitation
All resuscitative measures if applicable, including the location of unsuccessful vascular access attempts
Location most appropriate for Rehab group set up..
Shaded locations
Away from the immediate operational area are preferred
Firefighters shall be assigned to rehab when…
Based on departmental SOG’s
If 2 SCBA tanks are used or after 30 minutes of strenuous operations
if any member FEELS that another member needs evaluation by the rehab group
If any member exhibits abnormal, physical or mental functioning
If any member has any medical complaint
__________ Should be always advised of any personnel sent to rehab for any reason
The incident commander
(FF REHAB)
For all emergency operations oral fluid replacement up to ..
20 ounces for each 20 minutes of activity
(FF REHAB)
An electrolyte solution should contain ..
100 mg of sodium
8 to 14 mg of carbohydrate
Per 12 fluid oz
(Gatorade / Powerade ect)
(FF REHAB)
During rehab, a seated rest interval of at least _______
10 minutes
(FF REHAB)
If nausea or intolerance to oral fluids is present, you should …
Establish vascular access
&
normal saline 500ML
* This may be repeated once, if additional fluids are indicated after reassessment of vital signs
(FF REHAB)
If any heat related emergency symptoms are present and/or the firefighter has abnormal vital signs, the firefighter should be ______ & given ______
Cooled rapidly
Ample oral hydration fluids
*1 ounce for each 1 minute of operational activity
Firefighters with temperatures of 104°F or higher, or feels hot to the touch with changes in mental status and or develop seizures should have..
Rapid cooling treatment
-Ice packs in the neck, axillae and growing areas
-move firefighter to cooler environment and or fan blowing on them
-Take and document baseline temperature before administering cold normal sailing. Also document a temperature at time of patient transfer in the ED.
-Bolus is cold 34°F normal saline 30 ML/KG - IV/IO maximum 2 Liters
(FF REHAB)
During rapid cooling treatment, if shivering develops you should ..
Administer midazolam (versed)
5 mg slow IV/IO or 10mg IM/intranasal
If patient is agitated, and or in pain after versed and systolic, BP remains at 90 or greater
Administer morphine sulfate 5 mg IV/IO/IM
Total morphine should not exceed 20 mg
(FF REHAB)
For operations lasting longer than two hours, nutritional supplementation should be provided at a rate of at least ..
500 calories per hour for each member
What are three life-threatening problems that should take priority before obtaining a 12 lead ECG ?
Dysrhythmia
pulmonary edema
shock
The key to early recognition and management of the AMI patient is?
Identification of signs / symptoms of patient at risk for coronary artery / heart disease
Obtaining and interpreting a 12 lead ECG will allow the paramedic to provide definitive diagnostic information to the ________, which can greatly reduce delays in care
Medical control physician
Patients who demonstrate and inferior wall MI on their 12 lead, ECG should have a _______ performed to evaluate for a ________
V4R
Right ventricular infarct
- in these patients, the use of
nitroglycerin
morphine sulfate
furosemide (Lasix)
*may cause hypotension
If hypotension develops lay patient flat, if tolerated and administer normal saline, 500ml IV bolus
Indications for obtaining a 12 lead ECG include..
All chest pain or chest discomfort, consistent with myocardial ischemia
Upper abdominal/epigastric pain, unless evidence of G.I bleeding and patience, older than 35 years of age
Sudden onset of shortness of breath (CHF / PE)
After treatment of cardiac dysrhythmia
Fast or slow heart rates/cardiac dysrhythmias/ PVC’s > 6 min unchanged by oxygen treatment
Weakness or fatigue
Diaphoresis not explained by environment
All overdoses
Syncope or dizziness, altered mental status
Post cardiac arrest
Acute stroke patient
Electric lightning injuries
Non-traumatic jaw or arm pain
Unexplained, non-traumatic back pain, known or suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
New onset of pain/discomfort from nose to navel
Any significantly ill patient
What Patients may present with atypical signs and symptoms of general malaise, sweating, nausea, and or shortness of breath with no acute chest pain
Women
Elderly
Diabetics
W/ ACS /STEMI
What type of capnography system is used in the patient with an advanced airway?
Inline or mainstream capnography
The non-intubated patient uses what kind of capnography system?
Sidestream capnography
Such as with a nasal cannula
Indications for End tidal CO2 assessment ..
To confirm, initial placement of an advanced airway
To confirm the placement of an advanced airway up upon release of a patient at the emergency department or other transport unit
For continuous monitor of tube placement throughout, patient care and transport
To assess ventilation status
____________________________________________
To identify proper ETCO2 values when providing treatment to patients exhibiting signs of brain stem herniation
To assess the effectiveness of CPR
The capnometer will require approximately _______ breaths to display a change and ETCO2
6 breaths
ETCO2 35-45..
Normal ETCO2 values
ETCO2 46-50
Mild hypercarbia
increase the frequency of ventilations
ETCO2 greater than 50
Severe hypercarbia
Increase the frequency of ventilations
ETCO2 30-34..
Maintain for increased intracranial pressure management
(ICP)
A ROSC will be indicated during resuscitation following..
A rhythm change
&
A corresponding increase of greater than 20mmhg ETCO2 value
As a minimum when should you conduct / document an ETCO to reading
Upon placement of an advanced airway patient
or
Upon receipt of a patient
&
Upon release of a patient in the emergency department must be documented in patient care record
In a patient with spontaneous circulation, if the ETCO2 value is below _________, proper ET tube placement must be verified preferably by _________
10mmhg
Direct visualization