EMS Flashcards 2
Pneumonia - Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Oral and nasal droplets and secretions - several days
Tuberculosis (TB) - Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Respiratory secretions; airborne or on contaminated objects - 2 to 6 weeks
Whooping cough (pertussis)Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Respiratory secretions or airborne droplets - 6 to 20 days
Ryan White CARE Act
Notification when a patient is diagnosed with an infectious disease
CISM
Critical Incident Stress Management- comprehensive system to prevent and deal with stress
MCI
Multiple Casualty Incident
Pathogens
organisms that cause infection such as viruses and bacteria
Standard Precautios
Strict form of infection control
Bariatric
patients who are significantly overweight or obese
body mechanics
proper use of the body to facilitate lifting and moving and prevent injury
direct carry
transferring a patient from bed to stretcher in which rescuers curl the patient to their chests and reverse to the stretcher (bridal carry)
direct ground lift
lifting and carrying from ground level to a stretcher; two or more kneel; curl the patient to their chests; stand; then reverse to stretcher
draw-sheet method
transfering from bed to stretcher by grabbing loosened bottom sheet
extremeity lift
slip hands under patient’s armpits and grasps the wrists while second grasps the knees
power grip
using as much hand surface as possible at least 10 inches apart
power lift
lift from squatting position with weight close to body
abandonment
leaving a patient after care has been initiated but before transferred to a medical authority
advance directive
A DNR order; written
assault
in fear of bodily harm
battery
causing bodily harm
confidentiality
obligation not to reveal information except to health care professionals involved in the patient’s care or under subpoena; court; or patient release signed
consent
permission from patient for care
DNR
legal document usually signed by patient and physician
Duty to act
obligation to provide care to a patient
expressed consent
given by patients of legal age and mentally competent
Good Samaritan laws
limited legal protections for citizens and some health care providers
HIPAA
Health Insurance Portablility And Accountability Act
Implied Consent
presumed a patient or patient’s guardian would give if they could
In Loco Parentis
in place of the parents; indicates someone who has authority to give parental permissions
libel
false or injurious information in written form
negligence
finding of failure to act properly in which there was a duty to act; as would be resonably expected
res ipsa loquitur
the thing speaks for itself
safe haven law
permits a person to drop off an infant or child at a police; fire; or EMS station or any public safety personnel
scope of practice
define the scope; or extent of limits of the EMS’s job
slander
false or injurious information stated verbally
standard of care
care that could resonably be expected
tort
civil offense
Divisions of the spine
Cervical (7); thoracic (12); Lumbar (5); sacral (5); coccyx (4)
Atypically
Unusually
Pale and sweaty a result of
constricted blood vessels
abdominal quadrants
right and left; upper and lower
acetabulum
pelvic socket into which the ball at the proximal end of the femur fits to form the hip joint
acromioclavicular joint
where the acromion and clavicle meet
acromion process
highest portion of the shoulder
alveoli
microscopic sacs of the lungs where gas exchange with the bloodstream
anatomical position
standard reference positionf for the body the body is standing erect; facing the observer; with arms down at the sides and palms forward
anatomy
study of body structure
anterior
front of the body or body part
aorta
largest artery in the body transports blood from the left ventricle to begin systemic circulation
appendix
small tube located near the juntion of the small and large intestines in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen
arteriole
smallest kind of artery
artery
vessel carrying blood away from the heart
atria
two upper chambers of the heart. The right atrium receives unoxygenated blood returning from the body. The left atria receives oxygenated blood from the lungs
automaticity
the ability of the heart to generate and conduct electrical impluses on its own
autonomic nervous system
division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary motor function
bilateral
on both sides
bladder
organ of the renal system
blood pressure
blood exerting force diastolic blood pressure - pressure at rest while left ventricle is refilling - systolic pressure - pressure when left ventricle contracts
brachial artery
upper arm
bronchi
two large sets of branches that come off the trachea and enter the lungs right and left bronchi; bronchus singular
calcaneus
the heel bone
capillary
blood vessel where o2/co2 and nutrient/waste exchange occurs
cardiac conduction system
specialized muscle tissues the conducts electrical impulses that stimulate the heart to beat
cardiac muscle
specialized involuntary muscle found only in the heart
cardiovasuclar system
system made up of the heart and the blood vessels also called the circulatory system
carotid arteries
large neck arteries; one on each side carry blood from the heart to the head
carpals
wrist bones
central nervous system
brain and spinal cord
central pulses
carotid and femoral pulses in the central part of the body
clavicle
collarbone
combining form
word root with an added vowel joined with other words; root or suffix to form new word
compound
word formed from two or more
coronary arteries
blood vessels that supple the muscle of the heart
cranium
top; back; and sides of the skull
cricoid cartilage
ring-shaped structure that forms the lower portion of the larynx
dermis
inner (second) layer of skin; rich in blood vessels and nerves; found beneath the epidermis
diaphragm
muscle that devides the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity Major muscle of respiration
distal
farther away from the torso; oposite proximal
dorsal
back of the body or hand or foot; same as posterior
dorsalis pedis artery
artery supplying the foot; lateral to the large tendon of the big toe
endocrine system
glands that produce hormones that regulate body activities and functions
epidermis
outer layer of skin
epiglottis
leaf shaped structure that prevents food and foreign matter from entering the trachea
epinephrine
hormone produced by the body that dilates respiratory passages and is used to relieve severe allergic reactions
exhalation
a passive process in which intercostal(rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax; causing the chest cavity to decrease in size and air to flow out of the lungs
femoral artery
major artery supplying the leg
femur
large bone of the thigh
fibula
the lateral and smaller bone of the lower leg
fowler position
sitting
gallbladder
sac on the underside of the liver that stores bile produced by the liver
humerus
bone of the upper arm; between the shoulder and the elbow
hypoperfusion
inadequate perfusion of the cells and tissues fo the body casued by insuffiient flow of blood thru the capillaries; also called shock
illium
superior and widest portion of the pelvis
inferior
away from the head; (beneath) the lips are inferior to the nose - opposite is superior
inhalation
active process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphragm contract; expanding the size of the chest cavity and causing air to flow into the lungs
insulin
hormone produced by the pancreas or taken as a medication by diabetics
involuntary muscle
responds automatically to brain signals but cannot be conciously controlled
ischium
lower posterior portion of the pelvis
joint
two bones come together
kidneys
renal system filter blood and regulate fluid levels
large intestine
muscular tube removes water from waste received from small intestine and moves everything not absorbed by the body toward exrcretion
larynx
voice box
lateral
to the side; away from the midline of the body - opposite is medial
ligament
bone to bone connection tissue
liver
largest organ; produces bile to assist breakdown of fats and assists in the metabolism of various substances in the body
lungs
organ where exchange of atmospheric o2 and waste co2 take place
malleolus
protrusion on the side of the ankle lateral malleolus; at the lower end of the fibula is seen on the outer ankle; the medial malleolus at the lower end of the tibia; is seen on the inner ankle
mandible
lower jaw bone
manubrium
superior portion fo the sternum
maxillae
two fused bones forming the upper jaw
medial
toward the midline of the body - opposite is lateral
metatarsals
foot bones
metacarpals
hand bones
mid-axillary
line drawn vertically from the middle of the armpit to the ankle
mid-clavicular
line through the center of the clavicle
midline
drawn down center of the body; dividing right and left
muscle
tissue that can contract to allow movement of a body part
musculoskeletal system
bones and skeletal muscles that support and protect the body and permit movement
nasal bones
nose
nasopharynx
area directly posterior to the nose
nervous system
brain; spinal cord; and nerves that govern sensation; movement; and thought
orbits
bony structures around the eyes; eye sockets
oropharynx
area directly posterior to the mouth
ovaries
egg-producing organs within the female reproductive system
palmar
palm of the hand
pancreas
gland located behind the stomach that produces insulin and juices that assist in digestion of food in the duodenum of the small intestine
patella
kneecap
pelvis
supports the spine and is the point of proximal attachment for the lower extremities
perfusion
supply of o2 to and removal of wastes from cells and tissues as a result of flow of blood thru the capillaries
peripheral nervous system (PNS)
nerves that enter and leave the spinal cord and travel between the brain and organs without passing through the spinal cord
peripheral pulses
radial; brachial; posterior tibial; and dorsalis pedis pulses; which can be felt at peripheral (outlying) points of the body.
phalages
toe bones and finger bones
pharynx
area directly posterior to the mouth and nose. Made up of the oropharynx and the nasopharynx
physiology
study of the body function
plantar
sole of the foot
plasma
fluid portion of the blood
platlets
membrane-enclosed fragments of specialized cells
posterior
back of the body or body part
posterior tibial artery
supplying the foot behind the medial ankle
prone
lying face down
proximal
closer to the body; opposite distal
pubis
medial anterior portion of the pelvis
pulmonary arteries
vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs
pulmonary veins
carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium
radial artery
lower arm; felt when taking the pulse in the wrist
radius
lateral bone of the forarm
recovery position
lying on side also called lateral recumbent position
red blood cells
components of the bllod that carry oxygento and carbon dioxide away from the cells
renal system
regulates fluid balance and filtration of blood; also called urinary system
reproductive system
responsible for human reproduction
respiration (cellular)
process of moving o2 and co2 between circulating blood and the cells
respiratory system
nose; mouth; throat; lungs; and muscles that bring o2 into the body and expels co2
scapula
shoulder blade
shock
hypoperfusion
skeleton
bones of the body
skin
tissue between the body and the external environment
skull
bony structure of the head
small intestine
muscular tube between the stomach and the large intestine; divided into duodenum; the jejunum; and the ileum; which receives partially digested food from the stomach and continues digestion. Nutrients are absorbed by the body thru its walls
spleen
located in the left upper quadrant (LUQ) and acts as a blood filtration system and reservoir by the body for reserves of blood
sternum
breastbone
stomach
between the esophagus and the small intestine
subcutaneous layers
layers of fat and soft tissue found below the dermis
superior
toward the head; opposite inferior
supine
lying on the back
tarsals
ankle bones
tendon
muscle to bone
testes
male organs of reproduction used for the production of sperm
thorax
the chest
thyroid cartilage
wing-shaped plate of cartilage that sits anterior to the larynx and forms the adams apple
tibia
medial and larger bone of the lower leg
torso
trunk of the body; without the head and extremities
trachea
windpipe; structure that connects the pharynx to the lungs
trendelenburg posisition
patient’s feet and legs are higher than the head
ulna
medial bone of the forearm
ureters
tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder
urethra
tube connecting the bladder to the vagina or penis
uterus
female organ of reproduction used to house the developing fetus
vagina
female organ of reproduction used for both sexual intercourse and as an exit from the uterus for the fetus
valve
structure that opens and closes to permit the flow of a fluid in only one direction
vein
blood vessel returning blood to the heart
venae cavae
superior vena cava and the inferior vena cavae major veins return blood from the body to the right atrium( vena cava singular)
ventricles
two lower chambers of the heart right ventricle sends deoxygenated blood to the lungs; left ventricle sends oxygenated blood to the body
venule
smallest kind of vein
vertebrae
33 bones of the spinal column
voluntary muscle
can be consciously controlled
white blood cells
produce substances that help the body fight infection
xiphoid process
inferior portion of the sternum
zygomatic arches
bones that form the struture of the cheeks
aerobic metabolism
cellular process in which o2 is used to metabolize glucose. Energy is produced in an efficient manner with minimal waste products
cardiac output
amount of blood ejected from the heart in 1 minute (heart rate x stroke volume)
chemoreceptors
chemical sensors in the brain and blood vessels that identify changing levels of o2 and co2
dead air space
air that occupies the space between the mouth and alveoli but that does not actually reach the area of gas exchange
dehydration
abnormally low amount of water in the body
edema
swelling associated with the movement of water into the interstitial space
electrolyte
substance that when dissolved in water separates into charged particles
FiO2
fraction fo inspired o2; the concentration of o2 in the air we breath
hydrostatic pressure
pressure within a blood vessel that tends to push water out of the vessel
hypersensitivitiy
exaggerated response by the immune system to a particular substance
hypoperfusion
inability of the body to adequately circulate blood to the body’s cells to supply them with o2 and nutrients also called shock
metabolism
the cellular function of converting nutrients into energy
minute volume
the amount of air breathed in during each respiration multiplied by the number of breaths per minute
patent
open and clear; free from obstruction
pathophysiology
the study of how disease processes affect the function of the body
perfusion
supply of o2 to and removal of wastes from the cells and tissues of the body as a result of the flow of blood through the capillaries
plasma oncotic pressure
the pull exerted by large proteins in the plasma portion fo blood that tends to pull water from the body into the bloodstream
shock
inability of the body to adequately circulate blood to the body’s cells to supply them with o2 and nutrients hypoperfusion
stretch receptors
sensors in blood vessels that identify internal pressure
stroke volume
the amount of blood ejected from the heart in one contraction
systemic vascular resistance (SVR)
pressure in the peripheral blood vessels that the heart must overcome in order to pump blood int the system
tidal volume
volume of air moved in one cycle of breathing
V/Q match
ventilation/perfusion match. This implies that the alveoli are supplied with enough air and that the air in the alveoli is matched with sufficient blood in the pulmonary capillaries to permit optimum exchange of o2 and co2
moro reflex
infant reaction to startlement by throwing arms out; spreads fingers; then grabs with fingers and arms
palmar reflex
when u place your finger in an infant’s palm and they grab it
adolescence
13 to 18
early adulthood
19 to 40
infancy
birth to 1
late adulthood
60 or older
middle adulthood
41 to 60
school age
6 to 12
preschool age
3 to 5
rooting reflex
when you touch a hungary infants cheek and he turns his head toward the side touched
scaffolding
building on what one already knows
suckling reflex
when u stroke a hungary infants lips he will start suckling
temperament
the infants reaction to his environment
toddler phase
12 to 36 months
trust vs. mistrust
concept developed from an orderly predictable environment versus a disorderly irregular environment
bronchoconstriction
contraction of smooth muscle that lines the bronchial passages that results in a decreased internal diameter of the airway and increased restance to air flow
nasopharyngeal airway
flexible breathing tube inserted through the patients nostril into the pharynx to help maintain an open airway
oropharyngeal airway
curved device inserted through the patient’s mouth into the pharynx to maintain an open airway
patent airway
airway that is open and clear and will remain open and clear without interference to the passage of air
stridor
a high pitched sound generated from partially obstructed air flow in the upper airway
alveolar ventilation
the amount of air that reaches the alveoli
automatice transport ventilator (ATV)
device that provides positive pressure ventilations includes settings designed to adjust ventilation rate and volume; is protable; and is easily carried on an ambulance
bag-valve mask (BVM)
handheld resuscitation device with a self-refilling bag
cellular respiration
exchange of o2 and co2 between cells and circulating blood
cricoid pressure
pressure applied to the cricoid ring to minimize air entry into the esophagus during positive pressure ventilation; AKA Sellick maneuver
cyanosis
blue or gray color resulting from lack of o2 in the body
diffusion
molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration
flowmeter
valve indicating o2 flow in liters per minute
flow-restricted o2 powered ventilation device (FROPVD)
uses o2 under pressure to deliver artificial ventilations. Its trigger is placed so that the rescuer can operate it while still using both hands to maintain a seal on the face mask. Has automatic flow restriction to prevent overdelivery of o2 to the patient
hypoxia
insufficency of o2 in the body’s tissues
nasal cannula
device that delivers low concentration of o2 through two prongs that rest in the patients nostrils
nonrebreather (NRB) mask
face mask and resevoir bag that delivers high concentrations of o2. The patient’s exhaled air escapes through a valve and is not rebreathed
partial rebreather mask
face mask and reservoir o2 bag with no one-way valve to the reservoir bag so that some exhaled air mixes with the o2 used in some patients to help reserve co2 levels in the blood to stimulate breathing
positive pressure ventilation
artificial ventilation
pulmonary respiration
exchange of o2 and co2 between the alveoli and circulating blood in the pulmonary capillaries
respiration
diffusion of o2 and co2 between the alveoli and the blood (pulmonary respiration) and between the blood and the cells (cellular respiration) AKA breathing
respiratory arrest
breathing stops
respiratory distress
increased work of breathing; sensation of shortness of breath
respiratory failure
reduction of breathing to the point where o2 intake is not sufficient to support life
stoma
permanent surgical opening in the neck through which a patient breathes.
tracheostomy mask
device designed to be placed over a stoma or tracheostomy tube to provide supplemental o2
ventilation
breathing in and out or artificial provision of breaths
venturi mask
face mask and reservoir bag device that delivers specific concentrations of o2 by mixing o2 with inhaled air
blunt-force trauma
injury caused by a blow that does not penetrate the skin or other body tissues
danger zone
area around the wreckage of a vehicle collision or other incident within which special safety precautions should be taken
index of suspician
awareness that there may be injuries
mechanism of injury
force or forces that may have caused injury
nature of the illness
what is medically wrong with a patient
penetrating trauma
injury caused by an object that passes through the skin or other body tissues
scene size-up
steps taken when approaching the scene of an emergency call; scene safety; standard precautions; noting the mechanism of injury or nature of illness; determining the number of patients; and deciding what if any additional resources to call fo
AVPU
memory aid for classifying a patient’s level of responsiveness or mental status. A-alert V-verbal P-painful response U-unresponsive
chief complaint
reason EMS was called; in patients own words
general impression
bsed on first approaching the patient; patient’s environment; chief complaint; appearance
interventions
actions taken to correct or manage a patient’s problems
mental status
level of responsiveness
primary assessment
first element in a patient’s assessment steps taken. Six parts; forming a general impression; assessing mental status; assessing airway; assessing breathing; assessing circulation; and determining the priority of the patient fro treatment and transport to the hospital
priority
need for immediate transport versus further assessment and care at the scene
auscultation
listening via stethoscope
brachial artery
major artery in the arm
bradycardia
slow pulse; any pulse rate below 60
carotid artery
either side of the neck
diastolic pressure
pressure remaining in the arteries when the left ventricle of the heart is relaxed and refilling
dilate
get larger
oxygen saturation (SpO2)
ratio of the amount of o2 present in the blood to the amount that could be carried expressed in percentage
palpation
touching or feeling
pulse oximeter
electronic device for determining the amount of o2 carried in the blood (o2 saturation or SpO2)
pulse quality
rhythm (regular or irregular) and force (strong or weak) of the pulse
pulse rate
number of pulse beats per minute
pupil
black center of the eyes
radial pulse
pulse felt at the wrist
reactivity
reactivity of the pupils to light by changing size
respiration
breathing
respiratory quality
normal or abnormal (shallow; labored; or noisy) character of breathing
respiratory rate
breaths per minute
sphygmomanometer
the cuff and guage for blood pressure
systolic blood pressure
preasure when heart contracts and forces blood out of the arteries
tachycardia
rapid pulse; above 100
vital signs
respiration; pulse; skin color; temperature; and condition (plus capillary refill in infants and children); pupils; and bp
crepitation
grating sound or feeling of broken bones rubbing together
detailed physical exam
assessment fo the head; neck; chest; abdomen; pelvis extremities; and posterior of the body to detect signs and symptoms of injury. Differs from rapid trauma assessment only in the at it also includes examination of the face; ears; eyes; nose; and mouth during the axamination of the head.
distention
stretched; inflated; or larger than normal
history of the present illness (HPI)
info gathered regarding symptoms and nature of the patient’s current concern
jugular vein distention (JVD)
bulging of the neck veins
paradoxical motion
movement of a part of the chest in the opposite direction to the rest of the chest during respiration
past medical history (PMH)
information gathered regarding the patient’s health problems in the past
priapism
persistent erection from spinal injury or medical problem
rapid trauma assessment
rapid assessment of the head; neck; chest; abdomen; pelvis; extremites; and posterior of the body
SAMPLE
Past medical history; S-Signs and symptoms; A-Allergies; M-medications; P-pertinent past history; L-last oral intake; E-events leading to injury or illness
stoma
permanent surgical opening in the neck through which the patient breathes
tracheostomy
surgical incision held open by a metal or plastic tube
trauma patient
patient suffering from one or more physical injuries
OPQRST
questions asked to get a description of the present illness. O-onset; P-provokes (what triggered it); Q-quality (can u describe it for me); R-radiation (where is the pain and does it spread and where to); S-severity; Time (when did it start; has it changed)
reassessment
used to detect changes; four step - primary assessment; vital signs; physical exam; checking interventions
trending
changes in the patient’s condition over time
differential diagnosis
potential diagnosis compiled early in the assessment
EMS/EMT diagnosis
label for a patient’s condition based on history; exam; and vitals Less specific than MD diagnosis
drop/transfer report
abreviated form of the PCR
contraindication
signs or circumstances under which it is not appropriate or harmful
enteral
route of medication administration that uses GI tract; such as pill
epinephrine
drug that helps to constrict blood vessels and relax passages of the airway.
indications
signs or circumstances which it is appropriate to administer a drug
nitroglycerin
helps to dilate the coronary vessels that supply the heart muscle with blood
oral glucose
form of glucose given by mouth to treat an awake patient; able to swallow; with an altered mental status and history of diabetes
parenteral
route of medication administration that does not use the GI tract such as IV
pharmacodynamics
study of the effets of medications
pharmacology
study of drugs; their sources; their characteristics and their effects
untoward effect
effect of a medication in addition to its desired effect that may be potentially harmful
bronchoconstriction
constriction or blockage of the bronchi that lead from the trachea to the lungs
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) consisting of a mask and a means of blowing oxygen or air into the mask to prevent airway collapse or to help alleviate difficulty breathing
exhalation
expiration
expiration
pasive process which intercostal(rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax; causing the chest cavity to decrease in size and force air from the lungs
inhalation
inspiration
inspiration
an active process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphram contract; expanding the size of the chest cavity and causing air to flow into the lungs
acute coronary syndrome (ACS)
blanket term for any symptoms related to lack of o2 (ischemia) in the heart muscle. AKA cardiac compromise
ischemia
aka heart attack
acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
portion of the myocardium dies as a result of o2 starvation
agonal breathing
irregular; gasping breaths that precede apnea and death
apnea
no breathing
aneurysm
dilation or ballooning of a weakened section of the wall of an artery
angina pectoris
pain in the chest occurring when blood supply to the heart is reduced and a portion of the heart muscle is not receiving enough o2
asystole
condition in which the heart has ceased generating electrical impulses
bradycardia
heart rate is slow; below 60
cardiac compromise
same as acute coronary syndrome
cardiovascular system
heart and blood vessels
congestive heart failure (CHF)
failure of the heart to pump efficiently; leading to excessive blood or fluids in the lungs; the body; or both
coronary artery disease (CAD)
diseases that affect the arteries of the heart
dyspnea
shortness of breath; labored or difficult breathing
dysrhythmia
disturbance in heart rate and rhythm
edema
swelling resulting from a buildup of fluid in the tissues
embolism
blockage of a vessel by a clot or foreign material brought to the site by the blood current
nitroglycerin (NTG)
medication that dilates the blood vessels
occlusion
blockage as an artery by fatty deposits
pedal edema
accumulation fo fluid in the feet or ankles
pulmonary edema
accumulation of fluid in the lungs
pulseless electrical activity (PEA)
heart’s electrical rhythm remains relatively normal; yet the mechanical pumping activity fails to follow the electrical activity causing cardiac arrest
sudden death
cardiac arrest that occurs within 2 hours of the onset of symptoms May have no prior symptoms
tachycardia
when the heart rate is fast; above 100
thrombus
clot formed of blood and plaque attached to the inner wall of an artery or vein
ventricular fibrillation (VF)
condition in which the heart’s electrical impulses are disorganized; preventing the heart muscle from contraacting normally
ventricular tachycardia (V tach)
heartbeat is quite rapid; not allowing chambers to fill between beats
aura
sensation experienced by a seizure patient right before the seizure; which might be a smell; sound; or general feeling
diabetes mellitus
sugar diabetes; condition brought about by decreased insulin production or the inability of the body cells to use insulin properly
diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
result of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia); characterized by dehydration; altered mental status; and shock
epilepsy
medical condition that causes seizures
generalized seizure
affects both sides of the brain
glucose
form of sugar the body’s basic source of energy
hyperglycemia
high blood sugar
hypoglycemia
low blood sugar
insulin
hormone produced by the pancreas or taken as a medication by many diabetics
partial seizure
affects only one part or one side of the brain
postictal phase
period of time immediately following a tonic-clonic seizure in which the patient goes from full loss of consciousness to full mental status
reticular activating system (RAS)
series of neurologic circuits in the brain that control the functions of staying awake; paying attention; and sleeping
seizure
sudden change in sensation; behavior; or movement Most severe form os seizure produces violent muscle contractions called convulsions
status epilepticus
prolonged seizure or situation when a person suffers two or more convulsive seizures without regaining full consciousness
stroke
conditions of altered function caused when an artery in the brain is blocked or ruptured; disrupting the supply of oxygenated blood or causing bleeding into the brain. Formally called cerebrovascular accident (CVA)
syncope
fainting
tonic-clonic seizure
generalized seizure in which the patient loses consciousness and has jerking movements of paired muscle groups
allergen
something that causes an allergic reaction
allergic reaction
exaggerated immune response
anaphylaxis
severe or life-threatening allergic reaction in which the blood vessels dilate; causing a drop in blood pressure; and the tissues lining the respiratory system swell; interfering with the airway. AKA anaphylactic shock
epinephrine
hormone produced by the body As a medication it constricts blood vessels and dilates respiratory passages and is used to relieve severe allergic reactions
absorbed poisons
poisons taken into the body through unbroken skin
activated charcoal
substance that adsorbs many poisons and prevents them from being absorbed by the body
antidote
substance that will neutralize the poison or its effects
delirium tremens (DTs)
severe reaction that can be part of alcohol withdrawal; characteriszed by sweating; trembling; anxiety; and hallucinations. Severe alcohol withdrawal with the DTs can lead to death if untreated
dilution
thinning down or weakening by mixing with something else. Ingested poisons are sometimes diluted by drinking water or milk.
downers
depressants; such as barbiturates; that depress the central nervous system which are often used to bring on a more relaxed state of mind
hallucinogens
mind-affecting drugs that act on the central nervous system to produce excitement and distortion of perceptions.
narcotics
class of drugs that affect the nervous system and change many normal body activities Their legal use is for the relief of pain. Illicit use is to produce an intense state of relaxation
toxin
a poisonous substance secreted by bacteria; plants; or animals
uppers
stimulants such as amphetamines that affect the central nervous system to excite the user
volatile chemicals
vaporizing compounds such as cleaning fluid; which are breathed inby the abuser to produce a high
withdrawal
referring to alcohol or drug withdrawal in which the patients body reacts severely when deprived of the abused substance
parietal pain
localized; intense pain that arises from the parietal peritoneum; the lining of the abdominal cavity
peritoneum
membrane that lines the abdominal cavity (parietal peritoneum) and covers the organs within it (the visceral peritoneum)
referred pain
pain felt in a location other than where the pain originates
retroperitoneal space
area posterior to the peritoneum between the peritoneum and the back
tearing pain
sharp pain that feels as if body tissues are being torn apart
visceral pain
poorly localized; dull; or diffuse pain that arises from the abdominal organs; or viscera
excited delirium
bizarre and/or aggressive behavior; shouting; paranoia; panic; violence toward others; insensitivity to pain; unexpected physical strength; and hyperthermia; usually associated with cocaine or amphetamine use. Also called agitated delirium
positional asphyxia
inadequate breathing or respiratory arrest caused by a body posiion that restricts breathing
anemia
lack of a normal number of red blood cells in circulation
continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)
gravity exchange process for peritoneal dialysis in which a bag of dialysis fluid is raised above the level of an abdominal catheter to fill the abdominal cavity and lowered below the level of the abdominal catherter to drain fluid out.
end-stage renal disease (ESRD)
irreversible renal failure to the extent that the kidneys can no longer provide adequate filtration and fluid balance to sustain life; survival with ESRD usually requires dialysis
peritonitis
bacterial infection within the peritoneal cavity
renal falure
loss of the kidney’s ability to filter the blood and remove toxins and excess fluid from the body
sickle cell anemia (SCA)
inherited disease in which a genetic defect in the hemoglobin results in abnormal structure of the red blood cells
thrill
vibration felt on gently papation such as that which typically occurs withinn an arterial-venous fistula
arterial bleeding
bright red; rapid; profuse; pulseing; hard to control
capillary bleeding
slow; oozing flow
cardiogenic shock
shock; or lack of perfusion; brought on not by blood loss; but by the heart’s inadequated pumping action. Result of a heart attack or congestive heart failure
decompensated shock
body can no longer compensate for low blood volume or lack of perfusion Late signs such as decreasing blood pressure become evident
hemorrhage
bleeding; severe
hemorrhagic shock
shock resulting from blood loss
hemostatic agents
substances applied as powders dressings gauze or bandages to open wounds to stop bleeding
hypoperfusion
body’s inability to adequately circulate blood to the body’s cells to supply them with oxygen and nutrients
hypovolemic shock
shock resulting from blood or fluid loss
irreversible shock
unable to maintain perfusion to vital organs. Adequate vital signs may return patient dies withing days due to organ failure
neurogenic shock
hypoperfusion due to nerve paralysis (sometimes caused by spinal cord injuries) resulting in the dilation of blood vessels that increases the volume of the circulatory system beyond the point where it can be filled
perfusion
supply of o2 to; and removal of wastes from the body’s cells and tissues as a result of the flow of blood through the capillaries
pressure dressing
bulky dressing held in position with a tightly wrapped bandage; which applies pressure to help control bleeding
shock
inability to adequately circulate blood to the body’s cells to supply them with o2 and nutrients; which is a life-threatening condition AKA hypoperfusion
tourniquet
device used for bleeding control that constricts all blood flow to and from an extremity
venous bleeding
dark red; and steady
abrasion
scratch
amputation
severing of a body part
avulsion
tearing away or tearing off of a piece or flap of skin or other soft tissue This term also may be used for an eye pulled from its socket or a tooth dislodged from its socket
bandage
used to hold a dressing in place
closed wound
internal injury with no open pathway from the outside
contusion
bruise
crush injury
when force is transmitted from the body’s exterior to its internal structures broken bones; muscles; nerves; and tissues damaged; and internal organs ruptured causing internal bleeding
dermis
inner layer of the skin; found beneath the epidermis rich in blood vessels and nerves
dressing
material used to cover a wound to control bleeding and reduce futher contamination
epidermis
outer layer of skin
full thickness burn
all layers of the skin burned. Usually charred black or areas that are dry and white (third degree)
hematoma
swelling caused by the collection of blood under the skin or in damaged tissues as a result of an injured or broken blood vessel
laceration
cut
occlusive dressing
forms an airtight seal
open wound
skin is interrupted exposing the tissue beneath
partial thickness burn
epidermis (first layer) is burned thru and the dermis (second layer) is dmaged reddening; blistering; and a mottled appearance (second degree)
pressure dressing
applied tightly to control bleeding
puncture wound
open wound that tears through the skin and destroys underlying tissues penetrating puncture wound can be shallow or dep Perforating puncture wound has both an entrance and an exit wound
rule of nines
estimating extent of a burn Adult: 9% each for head and neck; 9% upper extremity (4.5 front/back); 9% chest; 9% abdomen; 9% upper back; 9% lower back and buttocks; 9% front of each lower extremity; and 9% back of each lower extremity (remaining 1%genital area) Infant or child: 18 % head 7% each lower extremity front; 7% each lower extremity back 9% each upper extremity(4.5 front/back); 1% genitals; 18 front; 18 back (some say 13.5 for each lower limb to get 100)
rule of palm
measuring extent of a burn; size of patients palm equals 1%; use as ruler
subcutaneous
layers of fat and soft tissues found below the dermis
superficial burn
involves only the epidermis; the outer layer. Characterized by reddening of the skin and perhaps some swelling ex sunburn (first degree)
universal dressing
bulky dressing
evisceration
intestine or other internal organ protruding through a wound in the abdomen
flail chest
fracture of two or more adjacent ribs in two or more places that allows for free movement of the fractured segment
paradoxical motion
movement of ribs ina flail segment that is opposite to the direction of movement of the rest of the chest cavity
pneumothorax
air in the chest cavity
sucking chest wound
open chest wound in which air is sucked into the chest cavity
tension pneumothorax
type of pneumothorax in which air that enters the chest cavity is prevented from escaping
angulated fracture
broken bone segments are at an angle to each other
cartilage
tough tissue that covers the joint ends of bones and helps to form certain body parts such as the ear
closed extremity injury
no open wound
comminuted fracture
fracture in which the bone is broken in several places
compartment syndrome
injury caused when tissues such as blood vessels and nerves are constricted within a space as from swelling or from a tight dressing or cast
crepitus
grating sensation or sound made when fractured bone ends rub together
dislocation
disruption or coming apart of a joint
extremities
portions of the skeleton that include the clavicles; scapulae; arms; writsts; and hands (upper extremites) and the pelvis; thighs; legs; ankles; and feet (lower extremities)
fracture
break
greenstick fracture
incomplete fracture
joints
places where bones articulate
ligaments
connective tissue that connects bone to bone
manual traction
applying tension to straighten and realign a fractured limb before splinting
muscles
cause movement of body parts and organs
open extremity injury
open wound to an extremity
sprain
stretching and tearing of ligaments
strain
muscle injury from overstretching or overexertion
tendons
connect muscle to bone
traction splint
constant pull along the length of a lower extremity to stabilize the fractured bone and to reduce muscle spasm in the limb. Primarily for femur
air embolism
bubble of air in the bloodstream
autonomic nervous system
controls involuntary functions
central nervous system
brain and spinal cord
cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord
concussion
mild closed head injury without detectable damage to the brain. Complete recovery is usually expected
contusion
brain injuries; a bruised brain caused when the force of a blow to the head is great enough to rupture blood vessels
cranium
bony structure making up the forehead; top; back; and upper sides of the skull
dermatome
area of the skin that is innervated by a single spinal nerve
foramen magnum
opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes from the brain
hematoma
head injury; a collection of blood within the skull or brain
herniation
pushing of a portion of the brain through the foramen magnum as a result of increased intracranial pressure
intracranial pressure (ICP)
pressure in the skull
laceration
brain injuries; a cut to the brain
malar
cheek bone; AKA zygomatic bone
mandible
lower jaw bone
maxillae
two fused bones forming the upper jaw
nasal bones
form the upper third or bridge of the nose
nervous system
overall control of thought; sensation; and the body’s voluntary and involuntary motor functions Components are brain; spinal cord; nerves that enter and exit the brain and spinal cord and extend to the various parts of the body
neurogenic shock
state of shock (hypoperfussion) caused by nerve paralysis that sometimes develops from spinal cord injuries
orbits
the bony structures around the eyes the eye sockets
peripheral nervous system
the nerves that enter and exit the spinal cord between the vertebrae; the 12 pairs of cranial nerves that travel between the brain and organs without passing through the spinal cord and all of the body’s other motor and sensory nerves
spinous process
bony bump on a vertebra
temporal bone
bone that forms part of the side of the skull and floor of the cranial cavity. There is a right and a left temporal bone.
temporomandibular joint
movable joint formed between the mandible and the temporal bone; the TMJ
vertebrae
bones of the spinal column (singular vertebra)
multiple trauma
more than one serious injury
multisystems trauma
one or more injuries that affect more than one body system
trauma score
system of evaluating trauma patients according to a numerical rating system to determine the severity of the patient’s trauma
active rewarming
application of external heat to rewarm the body of a hypothermic patient
air embolism
gas bubble in the bloodstream plural is air emboli more accurate term is arterial gas embolism (AGE)
central rewarming
application of heat to the lateral chest; neck; armpits; and groin of a hypothermic patient
conduction
transfer of heat from one material to another through direct contact
convection
carrying away of heat by the currents of air; water; or other gases or liquids
decompression sickness
condition resulting from nitrogen trapped in the body’s tissues; caused by coming up too quickly from a deep; prolonged dive. Sypmtoms deep pain the the muscles and joints
drowning
process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion/immersion in liquid; which may result in death; morbidity (illness or other adverse effects) or no morbidity
evaporation
change from liquid to gas. When the body perspires or gets wet; evaporation of the perspiration or other liquid into the air has a cooling effect on the body
hyperthermia
increase in body temperature above normal; which is a life-threatening condition in its extreme
Oral and nasal droplets and secretions - several days
Pneumonia - Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Respiratory secretions; airborne or on contaminated objects - 2 to 6 weeks
Tuberculosis (TB) - Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Respiratory secretions or airborne droplets - 6 to 20 days
Whooping cough (pertussis)Mode of Transmission, Incubation
Notification when a patient is diagnosed with an infectious disease
Ryan White CARE Act
Critical Incident Stress Management- comprehensive system to prevent and deal with stress
CISM
Multiple Casualty Incident
MCI
organisms that cause infection such as viruses and bacteria
Pathogens
Strict form of infection control
Standard Precautios
patients who are significantly overweight or obese
Bariatric
proper use of the body to facilitate lifting and moving and prevent injury
body mechanics
transferring a patient from bed to stretcher in which rescuers curl the patient to their chests and reverse to the stretcher (bridal carry)
direct carry
lifting and carrying from ground level to a stretcher; two or more kneel; curl the patient to their chests; stand; then reverse to stretcher
direct ground lift
transfering from bed to stretcher by grabbing loosened bottom sheet
draw-sheet method
slip hands under patient’s armpits and grasps the wrists while second grasps the knees
extremeity lift
using as much hand surface as possible at least 10 inches apart
power grip
lift from squatting position with weight close to body
power lift
leaving a patient after care has been initiated but before transferred to a medical authority
abandonment
A DNR order; written
advance directive
in fear of bodily harm
assault
causing bodily harm
battery
obligation not to reveal information except to health care professionals involved in the patient’s care or under subpoena; court; or patient release signed
confidentiality
permission from patient for care
consent
legal document usually signed by patient and physician
DNR
obligation to provide care to a patient
Duty to act
given by patients of legal age and mentally competent
expressed consent
limited legal protections for citizens and some health care providers
Good Samaritan laws
Health Insurance Portablility And Accountability Act
HIPAA
presumed a patient or patient’s guardian would give if they could
Implied Consent
in place of the parents; indicates someone who has authority to give parental permissions
In Loco Parentis
false or injurious information in written form
libel
finding of failure to act properly in which there was a duty to act; as would be resonably expected
negligence
the thing speaks for itself
res ipsa loquitur
permits a person to drop off an infant or child at a police; fire; or EMS station or any public safety personnel
safe haven law
define the scope; or extent of limits of the EMS’s job
scope of practice
false or injurious information stated verbally
slander
care that could resonably be expected
standard of care
civil offense
tort
Cervical (7); thoracic (12); Lumbar (5); sacral (5); coccyx (4)
Divisions of the spine
Unusually
Atypically
constricted blood vessels
Pale and sweaty a result of
right and left; upper and lower
abdominal quadrants
pelvic socket into which the ball at the proximal end of the femur fits to form the hip joint
acetabulum
where the acromion and clavicle meet
acromioclavicular joint
highest portion of the shoulder
acromion process
microscopic sacs of the lungs where gas exchange with the bloodstream
alveoli
standard reference positionf for the body the body is standing erect; facing the observer; with arms down at the sides and palms forward
anatomical position
study of body structure
anatomy
front of the body or body part
anterior
largest artery in the body transports blood from the left ventricle to begin systemic circulation
aorta
small tube located near the juntion of the small and large intestines in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen
appendix
smallest kind of artery
arteriole
vessel carrying blood away from the heart
artery
two upper chambers of the heart. The right atrium receives unoxygenated blood returning from the body. The left atria receives oxygenated blood from the lungs
atria
the ability of the heart to generate and conduct electrical impluses on its own
automaticity
division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary motor function
autonomic nervous system
on both sides
bilateral
organ of the renal system
bladder
blood exerting force diastolic blood pressure - pressure at rest while left ventricle is refilling - systolic pressure - pressure when left ventricle contracts
blood pressure
upper arm
brachial artery
two large sets of branches that come off the trachea and enter the lungs right and left bronchi; bronchus singular
bronchi
the heel bone
calcaneus
blood vessel where o2/co2 and nutrient/waste exchange occurs
capillary
specialized muscle tissues the conducts electrical impulses that stimulate the heart to beat
cardiac conduction system
specialized involuntary muscle found only in the heart
cardiac muscle
system made up of the heart and the blood vessels also called the circulatory system
cardiovasuclar system
large neck arteries; one on each side carry blood from the heart to the head
carotid arteries
wrist bones
carpals
brain and spinal cord
central nervous system
carotid and femoral pulses in the central part of the body
central pulses
collarbone
clavicle
word root with an added vowel joined with other words; root or suffix to form new word
combining form
word formed from two or more
compound
blood vessels that supple the muscle of the heart
coronary arteries
top; back; and sides of the skull
cranium
ring-shaped structure that forms the lower portion of the larynx
cricoid cartilage
inner (second) layer of skin; rich in blood vessels and nerves; found beneath the epidermis
dermis
muscle that devides the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity Major muscle of respiration
diaphragm
farther away from the torso; oposite proximal
distal
back of the body or hand or foot; same as posterior
dorsal
artery supplying the foot; lateral to the large tendon of the big toe
dorsalis pedis artery
glands that produce hormones that regulate body activities and functions
endocrine system
outer layer of skin
epidermis
leaf shaped structure that prevents food and foreign matter from entering the trachea
epiglottis
hormone produced by the body that dilates respiratory passages and is used to relieve severe allergic reactions
epinephrine
a passive process in which intercostal(rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax; causing the chest cavity to decrease in size and air to flow out of the lungs
exhalation
major artery supplying the leg
femoral artery
large bone of the thigh
femur
the lateral and smaller bone of the lower leg
fibula
sitting
fowler position
sac on the underside of the liver that stores bile produced by the liver
gallbladder
