Sudden Medical Emergencies Flashcards

A coworker suddenly cries out, stiffens, and then begins to jerk uncontrollably on the floor. What is the most appropriate action to take while they are actively seizing?

Answer: Move nearby furniture away and place a small, soft item, like a folded jacket, under their head.

During a seizure, the priority is to protect the person from injury. You should not restrain them or put anything in their mouth, as this can cause harm. Clearing the area of dangerous objects and cushioning their head protects them from their surroundings. CPR is not necessary unless the person stops breathing after the seizure has ended.

Which of the following is a primary component of the F.A.S.T. acronym, used for the rapid recognition of a stroke?

Answer: A - Arm weakness

The F.A.S.T. acronym stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. Arm weakness, often on one side of the body, is a key sign to check for when you suspect someone is having a stroke.

A person with known diabetes is awake but acting confused and irritable. Their skin is pale, cool, and sweaty. They are able to swallow. What is the most appropriate first aid?

Answer: Provide them with 15-20 grams of sugar, such as fruit juice or regular soda.

These signs are characteristic of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). The correct treatment is to give a conscious person a fast-acting source of sugar to raise their blood glucose levels. Fruit juice, regular soda, or glucose tablets are good options. Giving insulin would lower their blood sugar further, which is dangerous. Diet soda contains no sugar.

A person is stung by a wasp and within minutes develops widespread hives, facial swelling, and reports feeling that their throat is closing. They have a known severe allergy. What is the most critical and immediate first aid action?

Answer: Assist them in using their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector.

The person is exhibiting signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. The first-line treatment is epinephrine, which must be administered immediately to counter the severe symptoms like airway swelling. While antihistamines may help with hives, they work too slowly for a severe reaction. Calling 911 is also critical, but administering epinephrine is the most important immediate step.

After feeling dizzy and lightheaded, a person briefly loses consciousness and slumps to the floor. They wake up within a minute. What is the proper care for this person, assuming no signs of injury?

Answer: Have them continue to lie flat on their back, and consider elevating their legs.

After fainting (syncope), the goal is to improve blood flow to the brain. Having the person lie flat is the safest position. Elevating their legs can further help restore circulation to the brain. Helping them stand up too quickly may cause them to faint again. Splashing water and giving caffeine are not recommended first aid measures.

A friend with a history of asthma begins wheezing, coughing, and complains of severe shortness of breath. They are struggling to speak. What is the first and most important action you should take?

Answer: Help them locate and use their prescribed quick-relief (rescue) inhaler.

During an asthma attack, the priority is to help the person use their prescribed quick-relief medication, which is designed to quickly open their airways. Lying flat can make breathing more difficult; a sitting position is preferred. Breathing into a paper bag is for hyperventilation, not an asthma attack.