Medical Conditions & Ongoing Care Flashcards

A patient on the slopes reports sudden unilateral leg weakness, facial drooping, and slurred speech. What condition does this most suggest?

Answer: Transient ischemic attack or stroke

Unilateral weakness, facial droop, and slurred speech are hallmark signs of stroke or TIA, requiring immediate evacuation for definitive care.

Which of the following is a late sign of shock that indicates decompensation in an adult patient?

Answer: Falling blood pressure

Blood pressure drops late in shock as compensatory mechanisms fail; tachycardia, anxiety, and pallor are earlier signs.

A child in the patrol room has a respiratory rate of 50 breaths per minute and nasal flaring. What is the most appropriate intervention?

Answer: Administer high-flow oxygen and prepare for rapid evacuation

Tachypnea of 50 bpm with nasal flaring indicates significant respiratory distress in a child, requiring oxygen and urgent ALS evacuation.

A patient reports a history of anaphylaxis and is now developing hives and throat tightness after a bee sting. The correct first-line treatment is:

Answer: Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) to the lateral thigh

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis; antihistamines are adjuncts but do not reverse airway compromise.

During patient handoff to EMS, which component of the SOAP or patient report format conveys the patient's vital signs and exam findings?

Answer: Objective

The Objective section includes measurable findings such as vital signs, physical exam results, and SpO2 readings.

A patient who was found hypothermic and rewarmed now has a heart rate of 38 bpm and altered mental status. The OEC technician should:

Answer: Avoid jostling, keep horizontal, and expedite ALS evacuation for possible cardiac dysrhythmia

Severe hypothermia can cause life-threatening dysrhythmias; gentle handling and rapid ALS transport are critical to prevent ventricular fibrillation.

A patient with known asthma is wheezing and reports using their rescue inhaler twice with minimal effect. Your priority is:

Answer: Assist with a third dose of the inhaler and rapidly evacuate for advanced care

Inadequate response to two doses of a rescue inhaler indicates status asthmaticus, requiring urgent evacuation for systemic bronchodilators or corticosteroids.