Emergency Response & Critical Care Flashcards

A client begins a seizure while in the pool. What is the priority?

Answer: Support the head to keep the airway above water, prevent injury, and exit the water once convulsions stop

Maintaining the airway above water and preventing injury is key; never restrain or place objects in the mouth.

Which presentation best indicates anaphylaxis?

Answer: Hives, swelling of lips or tongue, wheezing, and falling blood pressure

Multi-system involvement including skin, airway and circulation signals anaphylaxis requiring epinephrine and EMS.

What is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis?

Answer: Intramuscular epinephrine and calling 911

Epinephrine auto-injector use in the thigh is first-line, with EMS activation.

Which sign indicates an active drowning victim rather than a swimmer waving for help?

Answer: Vertical body position with no effective kicking and arms pressing on the water surface

Instinctive drowning response is silent, with the body upright and arms pressing down.

Following a submersion event, why must a client who recovers fully still receive medical evaluation?

Answer: Delayed pulmonary complications such as aspiration-related lung injury can develop hours later

Secondary drowning or aspiration injury can present later, so observation is needed.

In a client with a known cardiac condition, which vital sign finding during a session warrants stopping exercise?

Answer: Drop in systolic blood pressure with exercise or new dizziness

A falling systolic pressure with exertion suggests inadequate cardiac output and is a stop criterion.

Which piece of equipment should be located on the pool deck for emergencies?

Answer: Rescue tube or reach pole, first-aid kit, AED, backboard, and phone

Facilities should keep rescue, medical and communication equipment immediately accessible.