NHS Dental Contracts & Medical Emergencies Flashcards

What is the Resuscitation Council recommended ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths in adult CPR?

Answer: 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths (30:2)

The Resuscitation Council UK guidelines recommend a 30:2 ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths for adult CPR by trained responders, prioritising high-quality chest compressions.

What is the correct management of a faint (vasovagal syncope) in the dental chair?

Answer: Lower the chair (supine position), elevate legs, loosen tight clothing, ensure airway is open, monitor recovery

Vasovagal syncope is managed by lying the patient flat with legs elevated to restore cerebral perfusion; most patients recover quickly without medication.

Which drug reverses the effects of benzodiazepine oversedation in conscious sedation emergencies?

Answer: Flumazenil

Flumazenil is the specific benzodiazepine receptor antagonist that reverses benzodiazepine-induced sedation and respiratory depression, used in sedation emergencies.

What is the minimum oxygen supply requirement for a dental practice according to emergency guidelines?

Answer: Portable oxygen cylinder sufficient for 30 minutes of flow (minimum 1,000 litres)

Resuscitation Council UK guidelines recommend a minimum oxygen supply of at least 1,000 litres (approximately 30 minutes at 10 L/min) to sustain emergency treatment until ambulance arrival.

What is the correct inhaled dose of salbutamol for an acute mild-to-moderate asthma attack?

Answer: 2–10 puffs of 100 mcg salbutamol via spacer

For mild-to-moderate acute asthma in the dental surgery, 2–10 puffs of salbutamol (100 mcg per puff) via a spacer device are recommended, allowing reassessment between administrations.

What are the signs of a hypoadrenal (Addisonian) crisis in the dental surgery?

Answer: Profound hypotension, collapse, confusion, pallor, and nausea in a patient on long-term steroids

Addisonian crisis (acute adrenocortical insufficiency) presents with severe hypotension, collapse, confusion, and pallor, typically in patients on long-term corticosteroids who have not been steroid-covered.