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149 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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What are pathogens? |
Agents that are spread through the air or by contact with another person’s blood or body fluids that cause infection and disease |
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How are pathogens transferred from one person to another?
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Airborne pathogen is spread by tiny droplets sprayed during breathing, coughing, or sneezing / Blood borne pathogens are spread when the blood or other body fluids (e.g., semen, phlegm, mucus membranes, etc.) of one person come into contact with an open wound or sore of another.
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What are ABCs?
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Airway, Breathing, Circulation (pulse)
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How should you check for responsiveness?
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Talk to them, wait for response; rub sternum to get a response; tap and shout
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When should a victim be moved?
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Only when the victim is in a life-threatening situation such as Fire or threat of fire or explosion, Toxic gases or radiation, Electrical hazards (e.g., downed power lines), uncontrolled moving traffic.
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What is imminent danger in terms of moving a victim?
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When the danger outweighs the risk of further injury from being moved.
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When should a victim not be moved?
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DO NOT MOVE any injured victim unless it is absolutely necessary.
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What is the recovery position and why is it used?
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On victim’s side. Used in the event of flailed chest, vomiting, AFTER a seizure.
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What is gastric distention and how do you avoid or prevent it?
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Chest rises, allow proper ventilation; condition where the stomach becomes distended.
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When should you suspect a spinal cord injury? What indicators could help you determine if a spinal cord injury exists? What actions or precaution should you consider in your treatment?
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Always. Keep the spine, neck and back straight. Any person who has suffered a traumatic injury may be subject. Can be indicated via the mechanism of injury (e.g., falling from a high position, vehicle collision, blow to the head, etc.)
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What two maneuvers can you use to open an airway?
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Jaw Thrust / Head Tilt – Chin Lift.
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What is a jaw thrust and when do you use it?
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If a head, neck, or spinal injury is suspected; to open airway on an unconscious victim; allows airway to be opened without moving the victim’s head or neck. Technique: Take a position at the top of the victim’s head, Gently place one hand on each side of the victim’s head, Place your fingers under the angles of the victim’s lower jaw and lift with both hands, displacing the jaw forward, Place thumbs on the victim’s cheeks, Stabilize the victim’s head, Using the fingers, gently push the victim’s jaw forward, If necessary, use thumb to pull open the victim’s lips
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What is Head lift / Chin tilt and when do you use it?
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Provides maximum airway opening. Technique: Place one hand on the victim’s forehead; place the fingers of the other hand under the bony area at the center of the victim’s lower jaw; tilt the victim’s head back by: - pressing backward on the forehead; lifting the chin with the fingers; move the jaw forward to a point where the lower teeth are almost touching the upper teeth; If necessary, use the thumb of the hand supporting the chin to pull open the victim’s mouth
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Explain mild airway obstructions and what actions should be taken to clear?
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Indicators: Coughing and choking. Person is able to speak. Technique: should be encouraged to cough forcefully to dislodge and expel the object.
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Explain severe airway obstructions and what actions should be taken to clear?
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Indicators: Conscious but unable to speak, cough, or breathe; unconscious and unable to be ventilated after the airway has been opened. If any object causing the obstruction can be seen it might be removed by using a finger sweep. Abdominal thrust. Chest thrusts.
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What is rescue breathing and when should it be used?
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The process of using one’s own breaths to artificially breathe for a victim. The rescue breathing process continues until the victim is able to breathe without assistance or other breathing support is provided by EMS personnel. Used if the victim has a pulse, but is not breathing.
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for abrasions?
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In the event of scraping away of only outer portion of the skin (Rug burns, Road burns, Skinned elbows/knees). Expose the injury site before applying bleeding control (e.g., remove, loosen, or cut away clothing covering the wound); assess for possible fractures associated with open wound. Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding; apply a pressure bandage; if necessary apply a tourniquet; apply bandages snugly but not so tight as to impair circulation to portions of the body distal (farther away)
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for lacerations?
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In the event of a jagged-edged wound; caused by objects tearing or ripping the skin (Broken glass, Jagged metal, Saws, Severe blow or impact with blunt object) Expose the injury site before applying bleeding control (e.g., remove, loosen, or cut away clothing covering the wound); assess for possible fractures associated with open wound. Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding; apply a pressure bandage; if necessary apply a tourniquet; apply bandages snugly but not so tight as to impair circulation to portions of the body distal (farther away)
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for incisions?
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Smooth, straight cut; Caused by sharp objects (paper cuts, razors, edged weapons). Expose the injury site before applying bleeding control (e.g., remove, loosen, or cut away clothing covering the wound); assess for possible fractures associated with open wound. Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding; apply a pressure bandage; if necessary apply a tourniquet; apply bandages snugly but not so tight as to impair circulation to portions of the body distal (farther away)
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for punctures?
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Deep wound through the skin and other tissue (arrows, knives, nails, bullets, impaled objects). Expose the injury site before applying bleeding control (e.g., remove, loosen, or cut away clothing covering the wound); assess for possible fractures associated with open wound. Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding; apply a pressure bandage; if necessary apply a tourniquet; apply bandages snugly but not so tight as to impair circulation to portions of the body distal (farther away)
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for avulsions?
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A part or structure of the body that has been forcibly torn or cut away (tip of nose is cut off, external portion of ear torn away, eye pulled from its socket). Immediate care: Place partially separated skin or tissue back in proper position before applying dressing and bandage; attempt to locate any avulsed part or amputated extremity; keep separated part/extremity dry, cool, and protected; do not immerse, pack in ice, or freeze separated part/extremity; transport separated part/extremity with victim for possible surgical replacement. Circulation: Monitor pulse below the injury site; check capillary circulation by pinching fingertips or toes (Color should return within two seconds to pinched area.) If circulation is impaired, loosen bandage (do not remove) until circulation improves.
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What are the first aid treatment steps / immediate care for amputations?
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Surgical or traumatic, removal of a body extremity; jagged skin and bone edges may be exposed; may involve massive bleeding. (Accidents involving chain saws, industrial equipment, etc. Immediate care: Place partially separated skin or tissue back in proper position before applying dressing and bandage; attempt to locate any avulsed part or amputated extremity; keep separated part/extremity dry, cool, and protected; do not immerse, pack in ice, or freeze separated part/extremity; transport separated part/extremity with victim for possible surgical replacement. Circulation: Monitor pulse below the injury site; check capillary circulation by pinching fingertips or toes (Color should return within two seconds to pinched area.) If circulation is impaired, loosen bandage (do not remove) until circulation improves.
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What is the immediate care for avulsions and amputations?
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Place partially separated skin or tissue back in proper position before applying dressing and bandage; attempt to locate any part/extremity; keep separated part/extremity dry, cool, and protected; do not immerse, pack in ice, or freeze separated part/extremity; transport separated part/extremity with victim for possible surgical replacement.
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What is continued care for avulsions and amputations?
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If necessary, immobilize the injury site (e.g., open fracture); Keep the victim lying still; maintain pressure on wound; monitor the victim; reassure the victim (Fear and anxiety can increase a victim’s heart rate and circulation.) Treat for shock.
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Care for open wounds in general?
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Expose the injury site before applying bleeding control (e.g., remove, loosen, or cut away clothing covering the wound); assess for possible fractures associated with open wound. Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding; apply a pressure bandage; if necessary apply a tourniquet; apply bandages snugly but not so tight as to impair circulation to portions of the body distal (farther away).
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What is shock and what are the indicators of shock?
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This is a life-threatening condition. If not immediately cared for, the victim can die. Perfusion is the continued flow of blood through the capillaries supplying the body’s tissues and organs with oxygen and removing waste products. Inadequate perfusion leads to it. Indicators: Altered mental status such as: - confusion; - anxiety; - restlessness; - combativeness; - sudden unconsciousness. Pale, cool, moist skin; profuse sweating; thirst, nausea, vomiting; blue/grey lips, nail beds, tongue, ears (i.e., cyanosis); dull eyes, dilated pupils; rapid pulse rate, weak pulse; abnormal respiration rate, shallow, labored breathing. |
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When do you treat for shock and why?
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All victims of traumatic or medical emergencies should be treated for shock upon initial contact; victims may appear to have no major injury but still show signs of restlessness or anxiety, which are early stages of shock |
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What can cause shock?
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Any traumatic or medical emergency can cause this. There may be no relationship between the severity of an injury and the onset of this.
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What is the treatment for shock?
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Control all external bleeding and treat other injuries; be alert for vomiting; maintain the victim’s body temperature; place the victim in a position to help maintain blood flow; reassure the victim; continue to monitor the victim and be prepared to take action if necessary (e.g., rescue breathing, CPR).
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What are the indications of a possible head injury?
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Mechanism of Injury (Striking a vehicle’s windshield or dashboard; blow to the head; falls); Mental Status (Agitated or confused; combative or appears intoxicated; decreased level of consciousness (e.g., appears “groggy”); loss of short term memory; loss of consciousness, even for a short period of time); Vital Signs (Abnormal breathing patterns (e.g., snoring respirations); Decreased pulse, general deterioration of vital signs); Visible Injury (Deformity of head / skull (protrusions, depressions, swelling, bruising, etc.), visible bone fragments; Appearance (Clear or bloody fluid from ears/or nose; unequal pupils; bruises behind ears (battles signs); discoloration around eyes (raccoon eyes); paralysis; priapism (penile erection); Other (Blurred vision; projectile vomiting)
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What are the appropriate first aid measures for head injuries?
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Do not move the victim’s head or neck; have the victim remain in the position in which found; determine level of consciousness; conduct a primary / secondary survey; if unable to establish an open airway using the jaw thrust technique, the head-tilt chin-lift method may be used; Activate EMS; control bleeding if necessary; be alert for the presence of cerebrospinal fluid in ears or nose.
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What cautions should be taken for a head injury with an impaled object?
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Look for an airway obstruction, if there is no airway obstruction, no removal is necessary.
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Under what circumstances should an impaled object be removed and how should the removal occur?
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Any object (e.g., knives, arrows, screw drivers, etc.) that is [_______] into a victim’s cheek or face and causes an airway obstruction should be removed. To do so, carefully pull the object out from the direction it entered; place dressings on both the inside and outside of the cheek to control bleeding. If the object resists coming out, stop. Do not pull any farther. Place a protective device around it to stabilize the object (e.g., paper cup) and secure the device with a bandage.
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What first aid measures are recommended for nosebleeds?
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If no spinal injury is suspected, assume a seated position, lean slightly forward, pinch midway at the point where bone and cartilage meet, maintain the position until bleeding stop. If the victim is unconscious, place the victim in the recovery position, if appropriate maintain an open airway. Do not pack the area in this situation. This could cause blood to back up and create an obstructed airway. |
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What are the 3 most common ways a chest or abdomen can be injured?
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Blunt Trauma (Blow to the chest/abdomen causing: fractured bones, bleeding, damage to the lungs, heart, great blood vessels, or other vital organs), Penetrating Object (Caused by bullets, knives, metal or glass, etc., can lead to blood loss, impaired breathing or vital organ damage, Compression (blunt trauma along with rapid chest and/or abdomen compression (e.g., striking a steering wheel) can lead to: blood loss, heart and vital organ damage, fractured bones and cartilage, ruptured lungs, spleen or other organs
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What is a “flail chest” wound?
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The condition where the ribs and/or sternum are fractured in such a way that a segment of the chest wall does not move with the rest of chest wall during respiration. It is caused when two or more ribs next to each other are broken.
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What are the indicators of a flail chest wound?
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Paradoxical breathing (both sides of chest do not move in a synchronized manner); painful and shallow breathing.
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What are the first aid measures of a flail chest wound?
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Activate EMS system, place victim in a –recovery position, supine position with a soft object (coat held firmly over the injured area) (apply pressure to the injured area, reduce pain, help the victim breathe easier, keep the broken section of the chest in line with the rest of the chest), Treat for Shock, Continue to monitor the victim
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What is an “occlusive dressing?”
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Nonporous dressing (eg., plastic bag), used to cover the wound, creates an air-tight seal
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Under what conditions would an “occlusive dressing” be used?
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With an open chest wound, air may enter the chest area causing a lung to collapse (e.g., sucking chest wound with a punctured lung). To prevent air from entering the chest cavity, this should be applied to the wound as quickly as possible.
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How is an occlusive dressing applied?
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1. Place a gloved hand over the wound to “seal” the wound. 2. Without moving the hand covering the wound, use the free hand to place a piece of plastic over the hand covering the wound site – plastic should be at least two inches wider than the wound itself. 3. While using the free and to apply gentle pressure and maintain the seal around the wound, gently remove the other hand from under the plastic. 4. Tape all but one corner of the plastic in place. The untapped corner will allow air to escape from the chest cavity when the victim coughs. Provide care to prevent shock. Continue to monitor the victim.
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What are the indicators of a closed abdominal wound?
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Victim found lying in a fetal position (legs pulled up to chest); rapid, shallow breathing; rapid pulse; rigid or tender abdomen with or without swelling; pain or tenderness to the touch during secondary survey
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What are the indicators of an open abdominal wound?
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Caused by lacerations and punctures to the abdomen. Blood loss and potential for infection should be of concern when dealing with this kind of wound. Organs or portion of organs may protrude from this kind of wound.
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What are the first aid measures for a closed abdominal wound?
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Activate EMS system; if no spinal injury suspected, place victim in a comfortable position (e.g., supine with knees bent up); treat for shock; continue to monitor the victim; be prepared for the victim to vomit.
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What are the first aid measures for an open abdominal wound?
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In the event of penetrating object: assess by determining the victim’s state of consciousness, conduct primary and secondary surveys; treatment – activate EMS, if no spinal injury is suspected, place victim in a supine position with the knees up, apply sterile dressing over the wound to control bleeding, treat for shock, continue to monitor the victim. In the event of protruding organs: assess by determining the victim’s state of consciousness, conduct primary and secondary surveys; treatment – Activate EMS, if no spinal injury is suspected, place the victim in a supine position with knees up, cover with MOIST sterile dressing, if available, seal with airtight bandage, treat for shock, continue to monitor victim.
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What are the first aid measures for bone, joint and muscle injuries?
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Assess: conduct a primary and secondary assessment to determine if there are any life-threatening injuries; treatment: activate EMS system, if necessary, DO NOT attempt to manipulate or “straighten out” an injury, expose the injury by removing clothing covering the area, control bleeding associated with open fractures, stabilize the injury by immobilizing the bones above and below the joint, check capillary refill and warmth of affected limb, treat for shock, do not elevate legs if injury is to the lower extremities
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What are the 3 degrees of thermal burns?
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First (damage to only epidermis), Second (damage to epidermis and dermis) and Third Degree (damage to epidermis, dermis and into fatty layer and muscle beneath the skin)
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What are the first aid steps to take for thermal burns?
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Activate EMS system, remove victim from source of heat, stop the burning process by cooling burned area with cool water, apply a dry sterile dressing and bandage LOOSELY, treat for shock, monitor victim
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What are the types of chemical burns?
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Liquid, dry (powder)
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What are the first aid steps to take when one has been exposed to a liquid chemical / dry chemical burn?
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Activate EMS, Peace officers should wear protective gloves and eyewear during the flushing process, if chemical is a dry powder, brush away as much chemical as possible BEFORE FLUSHING with water, remove excess chemical, exposed clothing, or jewelry prior to the FLUSHING process to prevent injury to other parts of the body, flush affected area with water for 15-30 minutes, after flushing, cover burned area with DRY sterile dressing, treat for shock, monitor victim.
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What kind of dressing do you use for chemical burns?
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Dry sterile dressing
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What are the first aid steps to take for an electrical burn?
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Ensure the scene is safe to enter, DO NOT touch the victim’s body until the source of the current has been turned off, if necessary, begin CPR immediately, examine the victim for external wounds including burns caused by – contact to thermal heat (metal), the source of current coming into contact with the body (entrance wound), and, current leaving the body (exit wound).; Treat all wounds the same as with the thermal burns, treat for shock, monitor victim
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What is radiation sickness (radiation burns)?
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Occurs when the body is exposed to radiation in either a single large dose or chronically
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What are the symptoms of radiation sickness?
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Nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; skin burns (radio dermatitis); weakness; fatigue; loss of appetite; fainting; dehydration; inflammation (swelling, redness and tenderness) of tissues; bleeding from nose, mouth, gums and rectum; low red blood cell count (anemia); hair loss
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What are the first aid treatment steps for radiation sickness?
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Activate the EMS system, evacuate the area of exposure, remove all exposed clothing and seal it in a plastic bag, if available; if possible, wash body and hair thoroughly with soap and water to remove any remaining radioactive material; dry and wrap the affected areas with a towel or blanket; monitor victim’s ABC’s and treat for shock
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What is a heart attack?
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A common term describing minor to severe conditions. Minor conditions include blockage of blood or lack of oxygen to heart tissue, with varying levels of pain. If the victim does not receive appropriate care immediately, the victim’s chances of survival are greatly reduced.
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What conditions can lead to a cardiac emergency?
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Coronary heart disease, drowning, electrocution, suffocation, choking, drug overdose, allergic reaction, shock
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What are the indicators for cardiac emergencies?
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Chest pain, radiating pain, vital signs, mental status, other (profuse sweating, cool, moist, pale skin, nausea or heartburn)
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What are the first aid measures for cardiac emergencies?
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Assess: Conduct primary and secondary surveys; Treatment – Place victim in a comfortable position (e.g., seated, supine, etc.); keep the victim calm and still (even if the person denies indicators of a heart attack); provide care to prevent shock; maintain victim’s body temperature; continue to monitor victim and provide reassurance until EMS personnel arrive
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What are the indicators for respiratory emergencies?
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Breathing rate (abnormally fast or slow); sporadic or irregular breaths; Labored breathing (increased effort by the victim, breathing appears shallow or very deep, little or no air is felt at the nose or mouth, uneven or little chest movement, accessory muscle use); breathing sounds (wheezing, gurgling, deep snoring sounds, no breathing sounds); coloring (in advanced stages, lips, nail bed, skin will appear blue-grey in color due to lack of oxygen (i.e., cyanosis); mental status – Anxious, fearful, panicky, altered)
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What are the first aid treatments for respiratory emergencies?
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Conduct primary and secondary surveys; Treatment: Place victim in a position of comfort (seated, supine); if victim is unconscious, place in the recovery position, if appropriate; keep the victim calm and still; allow the victim to take prescribed medications (e.g., inhaler); loosen any restrictive clothing; provide care to prevent shock; continue to monitor victim and provide reassurance; be prepared to begin rescue breathing if necessary
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What is a seizure?
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The result of a surge of energy through the brain. Instead of discharging electrical energy in a controlled manner, the brain cells continue firing, causing massive involuntary contractions of muscles and possible unconsciousness. If only part of the brain is affected, it may cloud awareness, block normal communication, and produce a variety of undirected, unorganized movements.
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What are the indicators of a seizure?
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Staring spells, disorientation, lethargy, slurred speech, staggering or impaired gait, tic-like movements, rhythmic movements of the head (e.g., jerking uncontrollably), purposeless sounds of body movements, dropping of the head, lack of response, eyes rolling upward, lip smacking, chewing or swallowing movements, partial or complete loss of consciousness, picking at clothing, bluish skin tone, urination
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What are the first aid treatment steps for a seizure?
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Treatment: Do not restrain them, move objects out of the way which could harm them, cushion the person’s head, keep uninvolved people away, never put any object in the mouth; post seizure assessment: conduct primary assessment, consider cervical spine stabilization, conduct secondary assessment
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What is a stroke?
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When an artery providing blood to the brain is blocked. This can also be caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain creating pressure on brain tissues.
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What are the indicators of a stroke?
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Mental status – confusion, delirium, dizziness, headache, unconsciousness; mobility – paralysis on one side of the body, numbness or weakness of a limb, convulsions, weak or sagging facial muscles, unusual or severe neck or facial pain, poor balance, clumsiness; vision – blurred or double vision, unequal pupil size, sensitivity to light; communication – impaired, slurred speech, difficulty understanding speech; other – difficulty breathing and swallowing, nausea vomiting
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What are the first aid measures for a stroke?
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Asses: conduct primary and secondary surveys; activate EMS system (if not already activated). Treatment: if conscious, elevate head and shoulders slightly (semi-sitting position); if unconscious and appropriate, place in recovery position on affected side; continue to monitor victim; maintain an open airway; reassure victim; take appropriate actions to prevent shock; protect any numb or paralyzed areas from possible injury; DO NOT give victim anything by mouth
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What is diabetes?
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A condition brought on when the body does not produce a sufficient amount of insulin. This can occur at any age.
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What are the indicators of insulin shock?
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Pale, cold moist, clammy skin; profuse perspiration. Breathing is normal; mental status – hostile or aggressive behavior, fainting, seizure, may appear intoxicated; pulse – rapid pulse; other – dizziness, headache, excessive hunger, drooling, nausea or vomiting.
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What are the indicators of a diabetic coma?
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Red, warm, dry skin; breathing – labored breathing, breath has sickly sweet (fruity) smell; mental status – decreased level of consciousness, restlessness, confusion, may appear intoxicated; Pulse – Weak, rapid pulse; Other – Dry mouth, intense thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, abdominal pain, vomiting, sunken eyes
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What are the first aid measures for a diabetic emergency?
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Assessment: Ask questions to determine if victim has exhibited any indications of potential diabetic emergency; look for medical alert jewelry or other indicators that the person may be diabetic (e.g., wallet identification card, oral medications, insulin in the refrigerator, etc.); conduct primary and secondary surveys. Treatment: If unconscious: - place victim in recovery position, if appropriate; DO NOT attempt to give the victim anything by mouth; If conscious and alert – place victim in a position of comfort; give the victim oral glucose; provide reassurance to the victim, continue to monitor the victim, take appropriate measures to prevent shock
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What information is important when handling a poising or substance abuse call?
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What substance or combination of substances is involved, when was the victim exposed to the substance, how much of the substance the victim was exposed to, length of time the victim was exposed, what effects the victim has experienced since the exposure, what if any interventions others (e.g., family members, friends, etc.) have already taken. Also look for medical and/or mental problems (e.g., bottles of medications, medical alert jewelry, etc.), existence of injuries, evidence of alcohol or illegal drug use (e.g., drug paraphernalia, bottles, etc.)
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What safety precautions should be taken in the event of a poisoning or substance abuse call?
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Officers should not enter any environment containing poisonous gases or fumes until the area has been well ventilated, use care when handling hypodermic needles or other sharp objects that may be contaminated, not take any actions that could cause them to become victims of the substance, follow agency policies and procedures
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What are indicators of poisoning?
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Ingestion: possible burns around the mouth or hands; unusual stains or colors on skin or mouth; strong odor on victim’s breath; strong odor on victim’s breath; difficulty breathing; sudden unexplained, severe illness; vomiting, abdominal cramping. Inhalation: dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping. Absorption: itching, redness, rash, or some other form of skin reaction, increased skin temperature, headache, eye irritation, allergic reaction. Injection: swelling at injection site, redness of affected skin. NOTE: Some individuals may have a systemic (i.e., whole body) reaction when exposed to certain substances. One symptom of a systemic reaction is anaphylactic shock, a condition that causes the airway to swell, making breathing difficult if not impossible.
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What are the first aid measures for poisoning?
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Assess: determine the victim’s level of consciousness, conduct primary and secondary assessments (look for signs of swelling, redness, puncture sites, etc.); attempt to identify the poisonous substance. Treatment: If necessary, remove victim from source of poison (gases, vapors, plant material, etc.), if done safely; if victim is unconscious, place in recovery position, if appropriate; contact poison control center for treatment advice; if exposure has been through absorption: - flood affected areas with water, wash affected areas with soap and water; take precautions to prevent shock; continue to monitor victim
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When should a pregnant woman not be transported?
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If the mother has entered the second stage of labor and birth may be imminent.
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What are the indicators birth may be imminent?
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Contractions that are occurring less than two minutes apart (five minutes if second or subsequent birth); the amniotic sac has ruptured (i.e., the woman’s “water has broken”); the woman feels an urgent need to bear down, and/or crowning is present
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In the event of excessive bleeding in childbirth, what are indicators complications may be present?
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Profuse bleeding from vagina; mother may or may not experience abdominal pain
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What are the first aid measures in the event of excessive bleeding during childbirth?
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Take appropriate measures to prevent shock, absorb blood with towels or pads, apply more as necessary; arrange for immediate transfer to a medical facility
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What are some conditions during childbirth that might require immediate transport to a medical facility?
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Limb presentation, breach presentation (buttocks first), cord presentation, delayed delivery (ensure mother is in the prone knee to chest position)
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If a newborn fails to breath, what are some rapid first aid measures you could take?
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Check for brachial pulse, if there is a pulse, begin rescue breathing, if there is NO pulse, and begin CPR immediately.
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What is hypothermia?
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When the body’s temperature drops to the point where body systems are affected. This can range from mild to severe due to a number of factors: length of exposure to cold temperatures, condition of victim’s clothing (wet or dry), age of victim (elderly and very young are more susceptible), existence of underlying illness or disorders (e.g., circulatory problems, infections/fever), traumatic injury (e.g., head injuries, etc.), alcohol consumption
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What are indicators of mild – moderate hypothermia?
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Violent shivering, Numbness, Fatigue, Forgetfulness, Confusion, Cold skin, Loss of motor coordination, Rapid breathing and pulse
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What are the indicators of severe hypothermia?
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Lack of shivering, Rigid muscles and joints, Slow shallow breathing, Irregular, weak, slow pulse, Dilated pupils, Decreased level of consciousness leading to unconsciousness, Unwilling or unable to do simple activities, Slurred speech, Blue-grey skin color
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What are the first aid measures for mild-moderate hypothermia?
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Move victim to a warm environment (e.g., patrol vehicle), Remove any wet clothing and replace with dry, Re-warm victim slowly, Provide care to prevent shock, Monitor the victim, If victim can swallow easily, give warm liquids (e.g., water), Do not give alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, or nicotine because they can further hinder circulation, Keep the victim moving to increase circulation
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What are the first aid measures for severe hypothermia?
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Determine the victim’s level of consciousness, Conduct primary and secondary surveys, If victim has a pulse but is not breathing, begin rescue breathing, If victim has no pulse and is not breathing, begin CPR
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What are the most commonly affected areas of frost nip and frostbite?
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Ears, face and nose, hands, feet and toes
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What are the indicators of frostnip?
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Superficial freezing of skin’s outer layer, Numbness, Pale skin color, Skin feels flexible to the touch, Tingling or burning sensation to the area upon warming
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What are the indicators of frostbite?
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Freezing of tissue below the skin’s surface, Skin feels stiff to the touch, Pale, grey-yellow, grey-blue, waxy, blotchy skin color, Pain or aching sensation to the area upon warming
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What are the first aid measures for frostnip?
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Remove victim from source of cold, Remove/loosen any clothing that may restrict circulation to the area
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What are the first aid measures for frostbite?
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Immobilize and protect the area, Wrap area in dry, loose bandage - Wrap each digit separately, allow area to rewarm slowly, Provide care to prevent shock
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What is a heat cramp?
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When the body loses too much salt due to prolonged perspiration.
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What is heat exhaustion?
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A condition that is more serious than heat cramps. It is a form of shock that can occur when the body becomes dehydrated. Once a person who is exposed to heat becomes thirsty, that person may already be suffering from dehydration.
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What are the indicators for heat cramps?
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Painful muscle spasms usually in the legs or abdomen, Lightheadedness, Weakness
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What are the indicators for heat exhaustion?
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Profuse sweating, Dizziness, Headache, Pale, clammy skin, Rapid pulse, Weakness, Nausea and vomiting
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What are the first aid measures for heat cramps and heat exhaustion?
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Remove victim from source of heat, have the victim rest, massage cramped muscles, provide fluids in small amounts, do not give alcohol or caffeinated beverages
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What is heat stroke?
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Occurs when the body’s internal temperature rises abnormally high. This is a life threating condition requiring immediate attention.
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What are the indicators of heat stroke?
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Red, hot, dry skin; rapid, irregular pulse, shallow breathing, confusion, weakness, possible seizures and / or unconsciousness
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What are the first aid measures for heat stroke?
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Activate the EMS system (if not already done), Continue to monitor victim, Remove victim from source of heat, Loosen or remove victim’s clothing, Cool victim’s body as rapidly as possible by:- dousing the person with cool water, - wrapping the person in a wet sheet or blanket,- placing an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the person’s neck, groin, or armpits, Provide care to prevent shock
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What is anaphylaxis?
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A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction caused by exposure to certain allergens. Exposure to an allergen (via insect stings, foods, etc.,) can cause: blood vessels to dilate leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure, swelling of the tissues that line the respiratory system causing an obstructed airway
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What is epinephrine?
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A hormone produced by the body. When administered as a medications soon after exposure, epinephrine will constrict blood vessels and dilate the bronchioles helping to open the victim’s airway.
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What are the indicators of insect stings and bites?
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Usual reaction: Local swelling, minor pain, itching, Allergic reaction: Itching, burning sensation, hives, swollen lips and tongue, difficulty breathing, respiratory failure
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What are the first aid measures for insect stings and bites?
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Usual reaction first aid measures: Remove stinger by scraping with firm object (Do not attempt to pull out with tweezers.), Wash area with soap and water, Apply ice to reduce swelling and slow the rate of toxin absorption; Allergic reaction first aid measures: Assist victim in taking prescribed epinephrine, Activate the EMS system, Monitor victim, Take precautions to prevent shock, Be prepared to use rescue breathing or CPR if necessary
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What are the indicators of marine life stings?
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Pain, swelling, discoloration
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What are the first aid measures for marine life stings?
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Wash area with soap and water, Apply heat (not cold) to deactivate venom enzymes, Apply dressing to puncture wounds if necessary, Monitor the victim, If an allergic reaction (i.e., anaphylaxis) is suspected: - assist victim in taking prescribed epinephrine if they have it, - activate the EMS system, - take precautions to prevent shock, - be prepared to use rescue breathing or CPR if necessary
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What are the indicators of spider bites?
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Dull pain within 15 minutes of bite, Headache, Chills, Sweating, Dizziness, Nausea and vomiting OR Painless ulcer at site where bitten, Ulcer gradually increases in size (bull’s-eye appearance), Chills, Aches, Nausea
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What are the first aid measures for spider bites?
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Wash site with soap and water, Apply ice to reduce swelling and slow the rate of venom absorption, Monitor victim, Have victim seek medical treatment, Treat for shock
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What are the indicators of snake bites?
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Pain, redness, and swelling which begins quickly after bite, Fang marks, Shortness of breath, Tingling around victim’s mouth, Bloody vomiting (appearance of coffee grounds), Shock, Coma
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What are the first aid measures of snake bites?
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Keep the victim calm and quiet, Place the affected area in a neutral position, Immobilize the affected area (use splints if necessary), Do not attempt to suck the venom from the bite, Do not cut the area, Take measures to prevent shock, Seek medical attention, Attempt to identify the snake
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What are the indicators of animal and human bites?
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Pain, redness, swelling at the site; damage can range from puncture wound of skin to severe laceration or avulsion of tissue
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What are the first aid measures for animal and human bites?
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Control bleeding if necessary, Wash site with soap and water, Cover with clean dry dressing, Take measures to prevent shock, Monitor victim, Seek medical attention |
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Chest pain (Cardiac Emergency)
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Crushing, dull, or heavy persistent pain; sensation of squeezing or pressure
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Radiating pain (Cardiac Emergency)
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Pain, pressure, or discomfort moving: - down either arm, the jaw, shoulder, neck or back; down the upper abdomen
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Vital signs (Cardiac Emergency)
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Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; abnormally slow or fast pulse.
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Mental Status (Cardiac Emergency)
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Anxiety or feeling of impending doom; irritability or short temper; denial of indicators.
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Other (Cardiac Emergency)
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Profuse sweating, cool, moist, pale skin; nausea or heartburn.
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What is a primary survey?
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The initial rapid systematic assessment of a victim to determine if life-threatening conditions exist.
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What is a secondary survey?
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A systematic examination of a victim to determine whether serious conditions exist; includes gathering information, conducting head-to-toe check for injuries, and checking vital signs.
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When do you elevate the victim's legs?
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Has any other injury or condition aside from spinal or head injury, experienced a stroke, difficulty breathing, has a fracture of the lower limbs.
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What is Hypoglycemia?
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Insulin Shock
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What is Hyperglycemia?
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Diabetic Coma
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If the victim is unconscious, what type of maneuver do you use to open a victim's airway?
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Jaw-thrust
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Ingestion (Poisoning)
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Possible burns around the mouth or hands; Unusual stains or colors on skin or mouth; Strong odor on victim's breath; Difficulty breathing; Sudden unexplained, severe illness; Vomiting, abdominal cramping
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Inhalation (Poisoning)
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Dizziness; Headache; Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping
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Absorption (Poisoning)
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Itching; Redness, rash or some other form of skin reaction; Increased skin temperature; Headache; Eye irritation; Allergic Reaction
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Injection (Poisoning)
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Swelling at injection site; redness of affected skin
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Indicators of Alcohol and substance abuse
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Confusion; hallucinations or psychotic behavior; blackouts; altered mental status; tremors or shaking; profuse sweating; increased pulse and breathing rates
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(Shock) Elevate the victim's head and shoulders if….
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The victim may have experienced a stroke.
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(Shock) If the victim is having difficulty breathing, then….
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Place the victim in a semi-sitting position; a position of comfort.
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In terms of shock, if the victim is thirsty, can you give them something to drink?
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No.
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If the victim has fracture(s) of the lower limbs, then….
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Do not elevate legs; put in a position of comfort
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Chest Thrust
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Another maneuver that can be used to force obstructions from a victim's airway.
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Ventilation Duration for Adult, Child, Infant
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1 second/breath; visible chest rise
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Pulse location for Adult / Child
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Carotid pulse
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Pulse location for infant
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Brachial pulse
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Compression rate for Adult, Child, Infant CPR
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100/minute (at least)
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Compression to Ventilation ratio 1-Person AND 2-Person CPR for Adult
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30 to 2
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Unconscious victims with this may appear clinically dead due to stiffness and extremely low pulse and respiration rates.
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Hypothermia
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Compression to Ventilation ratio 1-Person for Child/Infant
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30 to 2
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Compression to Ventilation ratio 2-person for Child/Infant
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15 to 2
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What are at least 3 behavioral indicators that may lead you to believe that a victim may have a head injury? What are some physical signs that might help an officer confirm this suspicion?
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Agitated, confused, combative, groggy; abnormal breathing, deformity of head/skull, unequal pupils, bruised behind ears, discoloration around eyes
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If a pregnant woman, whose water just broke, is driving a car (speeding), you stop her for speeding, assess, do you then transport her to the hospital immediately?
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No, Activate EMS (Fire and Paramedics) -- stabilize. Wait for EMS.
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If a victim has been stung and the stinger is still in the victim, what is the proper removal process?
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Scrape with firm object.
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You arrive on scene to a restaurant, a victim is severely allergic to shellfish and may have accidentally ingested some crab meat. How should you proceed?
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Assist victim in taking prescribed epinephrine, if they have it; activate EMS; Take precautions to prevent shock; Be prepared to use rescue breathing.
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A 40 year old is driving erratically, you make contact, you note the driver appears dazed, continues to stare ahead and jerks as if in surprise when asked for license / registration; driver begins to argue and tells you to leave him alone. Driver then props his head on the steering wheel and appears to nod off. How should you proceed and why?
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Primary assess: Look for indicators - Head Injury (possible seizure). Dazed, argumentative, starts to doze off, check for abnormal breathing. Determine level of consciousness, activate EMS, be alert for the presence of cerebrospinal fluid in ears or nose. If present, bandage loosely so as not to restrict the flow. Do not apply direct pressure to any head/skull deformity. Be prepared for sudden and forceful projectile vomiting. Treat for shock. Do not elevate the victim's legs. Reassure the victim. Continue to monitor victim until EMS arrives.
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A man runs from a residence and flags you (officer) down. The man explains his 2 yr. old son may have just swallowed lemon-scented household cleaner. The man is frantic and he informs you this just happened a few minutes ago, what should you do next?
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Activate EMS, if not already activated. Attempt to calm the man, determine victim's level of consciousness. Remove the victim from source of poison, if done safely. If victim is unconscious, place in recovery position, if appropriate; contact poison control center for treatment advice. Take precautions to prevent shock; continue to monitor victim.
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How do you recognize a seizure?
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Staring spells, disorientation, lethargy, slurred speech, staggering or impaired gait, tic-like movements, rhythmic movements of the head, purposeless sounds of body movements, dropping of the head, lack of response, eyes rolling upward, lip smacking, chewing, or swallowing movements, partial or complete loss of consciousness, picking at clothing, bluish skin tone, urination
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What should you do to protect a victim during a seizure? |
Contact EMS. You do the same thing regardless of how long the seizure lasts. Do not restrain them, move objects out of the way that could harm them, cushion the person's head, keep uninvolved people away, never put any object in the mouth
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What is a post seizure assessment?
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Conduct primary assessment, consider cervical spine stabilization, conduct secondary assessment. Remain with the individual until he or she is reoriented to the surroundings and victim is transferred to equal or higher level of care. Look for medical alert identification, place victim in the recovery position and care for any injuries that occurred during the seizure. |
