Technology & Digital Tools Flashcards

Which technology do modern AEDs use to minimize interruptions to CPR while analyzing cardiac rhythm?

Answer: CPR artifact filtering algorithms

Modern AEDs use artifact filtering software to analyze rhythm during ongoing CPR compressions, allowing analysis with minimal or no pause in chest compressions.

An OEC provider carries a portable satellite weather receiver. Compared to a smartphone weather app, what is its primary operational advantage in the backcountry?

Answer: Receives data without cellular or internet connectivity

Satellite weather receivers (e.g., Garmin inReach with weather service) pull forecast data directly from satellites, functioning entirely without cellular infrastructure.

A patroller uses a digital inclinometer app to assess slope angle before probing an avalanche debris field. At what angle does avalanche risk peak for slab avalanches?

Answer: 30–45 degrees

Slab avalanches most commonly release on slopes between 30–45 degrees, where snow accumulates sufficiently but gravity stress exceeds snowpack strength.

When using a tablet-based ePCR system during a multi-patient incident, which ICS principle should guide how the OEC provider uses the technology?

Answer: Assign one person solely to documentation so caregivers focus on patients

ICS unity of command and task specialization dictates assigning a dedicated documentation role so clinical providers maintain hands-on patient care.

A rescue team uses GPS waypoints to mark the last seen point (LSP) of a missing person. Why is the LSP waypoint more operationally useful than the point last known (PLK)?

Answer: The LSP is based on confirmed visual evidence rather than assumption

The Last Seen Point is verified by direct observation, making it a reliable starting coordinate for search probability calculations, unlike the Point Last Known which may rely on inference.

An OEC provider uses a commercial pulse oximeter in a patient with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from a heater malfunction in a shelter. Why is the SpO2 reading unreliable?

Answer: Standard pulse oximeters cannot distinguish carboxyhemoglobin from oxyhemoglobin

Conventional pulse oximeters read carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) as oxyhemoglobin because both absorb light similarly at 660 nm, producing falsely normal SpO2 readings.

During a backcountry rescue, the team leader uses a CalTopo map shared via a satellite messenger platform. Which feature makes this most valuable for search coordination?

Answer: Real-time shared map with team member GPS positions overlaid on topo

Shared map views with live GPS positions allow incident command to see all team members' locations on topographic terrain, enabling informed resource deployment decisions.