Exam 5: Medical Emergencies Flashcards
What causes migraine headaches?
constriction of blood vessels in the brain = increase pressure
What is a symptom associated with migraine headaches?
photophobia
What is a stroke also called?
cerebrovascular accident
What type of headache is associated with a stroke?
“the worst headache of my life”
What causes an ischemic stroke?
embolism in the vessels of the brain
What causes a hemorrhagic stroke?
aneurysm/trauma | rupture of blood vessel = bleed out
Which type of stroke is more fatal?
hemorrhagic = bleed out
What symptom/sign greatly contributes to a stroke?
hypertension
How can you differentiate between the 2 types of stroke?
CT will show if blood is present or not (ischemic)
What does FAST stand for?
facial droop | arm dropping | slurred speech | time to act
How can you assess arm dropping in suspected stroke patients?
have patient hold arms up palms up = if one begins to drop down = stroke
Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke.
headache | hemiparesis/hemiplegia | aphasia | AMS | HYPERTENSION
What is hemiparesis/hemiplegia?
weakness on one side of body
What is an important question to ask bystanders/family/friends about a stroke patient?
when was the last time patient was acting normal
What is the window of time from onset of stroke when a patient has a great chance of survival? What is it for really?
3hrs or less | clot-busting medication
In which stroke patient can receive clot busting medication?
ischemic only
What is a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?
stroke that lasts for a short time and resolves itself
What causes a TIA?
thrombotic particles get stuck in the blood vessel = block the vessel until it breaks free
Signs and Symptoms of TIA
stroke symptoms that last less than 24 hrs
How do you treat TIA?
treat it like a stroke
What are 3 conditions that can mimic a stroke?
hypoglycemia | postictal state | subdural/epidural bleeding
What is syncope?
temporary LOC due to short period of cerebral hypoxia
What are 4 causes of syncope?
hypoglycemia | lack of O2 | vagal stimulation | seizures
How do you transport patients who fainted?
SUPINE