Week 5- Physiatrics Patients Flashcards
What are some medical conditions that can give the appearance of “acting crazy”?
Excited delirium
OD
Hypoglycemia
Depression
MH pts
What is considered a psychiatric emergency?
when person becomes suicidal, homicidal or has a physcotic episode
more frequent delusions or hallucinations that result in loss of contact with reality
risky behaviours or become violent!!
Anxiety… what is it? How does it develop?
Generalized anxiety disorder involves persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities.
Life experiences such as traumatic events appear to trigger anxiety disorders who are already prone to anxiety
Inherited traits also can be a factor
Anxiety may be linked to an underlying health issue
Anxiety can be a side effect of certain medications
What is depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness of loss and interest
Onset, during late teens- mid 20s
What is bipolar disorder?
A mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression)
What is the two factors may be involved in bipolar disorder?
Biological differences: people with bipolar disorder appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain but may eventually help pinpoint causes
Genetics: bipolar disorder is more common in people who have a first degree relative, such as a sibling or parent with the condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing bipolar disorder
What re risk factors of bipolar disorder?
Having a 1st degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, with bipolar disorder
Periods of high stress, such as the death of a loved one or other traumatic event
Drug or alcohol abuse
Avg onset- 25 yrs old
What is schizophrenia?
Is a serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally
People with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment
What are risk factors of schizophrenia?
Having a family hx of this disorder
Some pregnancy and birth complications, such as malnutrition or exposure to toxins or viruses that may impact brain development
Taking mind altering (psychoactive or psychotropic) drugs during teen years and young adulthood
What is dementia?
the loss of cognitive functioning, thinking, remembering, and reasoning to such an extent that it interferes with a persons daily life and activities
What is excited delirium?
Characterized by the acute onset of agitation, aggression, distress and possibly sudden death.
How does a pt w excited delirium present?
Aggressive behaviour
Panic
Screaming
Increase pain tolerance
Unexpected physical strength
Tachypnea
diaphoresis
Inappropriate clothing (nakedness)
Reflection attraction
Can we refuse to work??
Under Occupation Health and Safety Act, Section 43 (1) and (2) paramedics do not have the right to refuse unsafe work where the circumstances are due to the inherent nature of employment.
Can we delay pt contact just from dispatch info alone?
NO!!
How do we remove taser probes?
stretch skin, then slowly pull!!
