Lecture 1/Chapter 2 Flashcards
Communicable Disease
A disease that can be spread from one person/species to another
Bloodborne Pathogen
Pathogenic microorganisms present in the blood
Contagious
A disease that can be transferred from one person to another
Cumulative Stress Reactions
The effects of prolonged or excessive stress
Delayed Stress Reaction
When someone has a reaction to stress sometime after the stressful situation
Dependent Lividity (Hypostasis)
Blood that settles in the lower part of the body that are pulseless and apneic (dead)
Direct Contact
Transmission of a communicable disease from physical contact with another person
Disinfection
Killing pathogenic agents with chemicals made for that purpose
How can you reduce infection risk?
Immunizations, PPE, handwashing, and HEPA/N95 masks
What should you always do to prevent contamination?
Always wash your hands and use gloves, remove gloves and other PPE with correct technique, and always dispose of sharps.
What are some diseases of special concern?
HIV, hepatitis A and B, meningitis, and tuberculosis
What is meningitis?
A viral or bacterial inflammation of the meninges; presents with flu-like symptoms, stiff neck, photophobia/phonophobia, fever, and chills
What is tuberculosis?
A lower respiratory infection that is spread in the air
How should masks be applied if worried of contagion?
You should wear an N95 and the patient should wear a regular paper mask
What are the standard precautions for the infection control routine?
Clean ambulance, dispose medical waste, and remove contaminated linen
What should you do if a scene is not safe?
Do not approach no matter what, wait for law enforcement to come and clear the scene of dangers
What are the predictable stages of grief?
Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance
How should you interact with the family of a patient who has died?
Avoid sad comments, manage your own emotions, do not give false hope, be calm, orient whoever you’re talking to, be honest, acknowledge the seriousness of the condition/situation, and locate/notify any family is possible.
What are the stages of General Adaptation Syndrome?
Alarm, resistance, and recovery/exhaustion
Acute stress reactions
Occurs during the situation; on scene peer support should occur, in which the stressed person is rotated out until they can gather themself
Cumulative Stress Reactions
Prolonged or excessive stress
PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; occurs after an excessive trauma in which anything can trigger a strong reaction that reminds a person about the stressful event they endured
What is Critical Incident Stress Debriefing?
24-72 hours after a stressful event, a formal meeting occurs in which everyone gathers to talk about what happened and work through their emotions
