Emergency Response & First Aid Flashcards

When a client suddenly becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, what is the FIRST action a PCA should take?

Answer: Call 911 (or have someone else call) and begin CPR

Activating emergency services and starting CPR immediately maximizes the chance of survival for a client in cardiac arrest.

A PCA notices a client has a small superficial cut that is bleeding. What is the appropriate first-aid response?

Answer: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or gloved hand

Applying direct pressure is the standard first step to control minor bleeding and prevent infection.

A client tells the PCA they are experiencing crushing chest pain radiating to their left arm. What should the PCA do?

Answer: Call 911 immediately and keep the client calm and still

These are classic signs of a heart attack requiring immediate emergency services; keeping the client calm minimizes cardiac stress.

Which of the following is the correct hand placement for adult CPR chest compressions?

Answer: Center of the chest on the lower half of the sternum

Compressions on the lower half of the sternum effectively pump blood from the heart to vital organs.

A client begins to choke and cannot speak, cough, or breathe. What should the PCA do?

Answer: Perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) immediately

Abdominal thrusts create upward pressure to expel a foreign-body airway obstruction in a conscious adult.

A client has fallen and is complaining of severe hip pain with their leg appearing shortened and rotated. What should the PCA do?

Answer: Keep the client still and call 911; do not attempt to move the client

A shortened, rotated leg after a fall is a sign of a possible hip fracture; moving the client can worsen the injury.

When should a PCA use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)?

Answer: When a client is in cardiac arrest and an AED is available

An AED is designed for use in cardiac arrest; it analyzes the rhythm and delivers a shock only if indicated.