Medical Emergencies & Patient Transport Flashcards

What is the most appropriate position for transporting a patient in shock?

Answer: Supine with legs elevated

For a patient in shock, transporting them in a supine position with legs elevated (modified Trendelenburg) is often recommended. This position promotes venous return from the lower extremities to the central circulation, which can temporarily increase preload and improve cardiac output. This helps enhance perfusion to vital organs and can improve blood pressure.

Which condition is most likely indicated by wheezing during assessment?

Answer: Asthma

Wheezing is a high-pitched, whistling sound typically heard on exhalation, caused by air moving through narrowed airways. This symptom is most characteristic of bronchoconstriction and inflammation, making asthma the most likely condition among the choices. While other conditions can cause respiratory distress, wheezing is a hallmark sign of obstructive airway diseases like asthma.

What is the priority intervention for a diabetic patient with altered mental status?

Answer: Check blood glucose and provide glucose

For a diabetic patient with altered mental status, the priority intervention is to immediately check their blood glucose level and provide glucose if indicated. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a rapid and life-threatening emergency that can quickly lead to brain damage if not corrected. Administering glucose (oral or IV) can quickly reverse the neurological effects.

What is the best way to manage a seizure in progress?

Answer: Protect from injury and monitor airway

During a seizure, the best way to manage the patient is to protect them from injury and monitor their airway. This involves clearing the area of hazards, cushioning their head, and ensuring they can breathe. Attempting to hold the patient down or insert objects into their mouth can cause further harm and is not recommended.

Which symptom is most concerning in a stroke assessment?

Answer: Facial droop

Facial droop is one of the most concerning symptoms in a stroke assessment and is a key component of the FAST acronym (Face, Arm, Speech, Time). It indicates a potential neurological deficit affecting the facial nerves, strongly suggesting a stroke. Rapid identification of this symptom necessitates immediate medical attention for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Which is the most appropriate transport decision for a trauma patient with an unstable airway?

Answer: Transport to nearest facility with airway support

For a trauma patient with an unstable airway, the most appropriate transport decision is rapid transport to the nearest facility with advanced airway support. An unstable airway is an immediate life threat requiring definitive management, which often includes advanced procedures beyond prehospital capabilities. Delaying transport or going to an inadequately equipped facility would jeopardize the patient's survival.

Which piece of equipment is essential for spinal injury transport?

Answer: Long spine board

A long spine board is an essential piece of equipment for spinal injury transport. It provides rigid, full-body immobilization, preventing movement of the entire spinal column. This stabilization is crucial to minimize the risk of further damage to the spinal cord during extrication and transport of a patient with a suspected spinal injury.

How should chest pain with suspected cardiac origin be transported?

Answer: Semi-Fowler’s with monitoring

Patients with chest pain of suspected cardiac origin should be transported in a semi-Fowler's position (sitting up at a 30-45 degree angle) with continuous monitoring. This position can improve breathing, reduce the workload on the heart, and alleviate dyspnea. Continuous monitoring is vital to detect any changes in cardiac rhythm or vital signs during transport.

Which of the following is a time-sensitive emergency requiring rapid transport?

Answer: Stroke

Stroke is a highly time-sensitive emergency requiring rapid transport to a specialized stroke center. The effectiveness of clot-busting medications (thrombolytics) and mechanical thrombectomy treatments is dependent on administration within a narrow time window. Delays in treatment can lead to irreversible brain damage and severe long-term disability, emphasizing the critical need for rapid intervention.