EMT 224 Flashcards
(76 cards)
What is the definition of hypoglycemia?
Blood glucose < 70 mg/dL
Hypoglycemia can occur due to excess insulin, missed meals, overexertion, liver disease, or alcohol consumption.
What are the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia?
- Altered mental status
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Diaphoresis
- Tachycardia
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Coma
These symptoms may vary in severity based on the degree of hypoglycemia.
What is the management for a conscious patient experiencing hypoglycemia?
Oral glucose
For an unconscious patient, IV dextrose or IM glucagon is administered.
What is the definition of a stroke (CVA)?
Interruption of blood flow to the brain
This can be due to ischemic (blockage) or hemorrhagic (ruptured blood vessel) causes.
What are the signs and symptoms of a stroke?
- Facial droop
- Arm drift
- Slurred speech (FAST)
- Hemiplegia
- Altered level of consciousness
FAST stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time to call emergency services.
What is the management for a stroke?
- Rapid transport
- Maintain ABCs
- IV access
- Stroke scale assessment (e.g., Cincinnati)
- CT scan confirmation
- tPA if within window
tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) is a clot-busting medication used in ischemic strokes.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
Fertilized egg implanted outside the uterus
Most commonly occurs in the fallopian tubes.
What are the signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy?
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Shoulder tip pain (Kehr’s sign)
- Signs of shock if ruptured
Kehr’s sign refers to referred pain in the shoulder due to diaphragmatic irritation.
What is the management for an ectopic pregnancy?
- Rapid transport
- IV access
- Treat for hypovolemic shock
Hypovolemic shock may occur if the ectopic pregnancy ruptures.
What is oliguria?
< 500 mL urine/day
Oliguria is often a sign of acute kidney injury (AKI).
What are the causes of oliguria in renal failure?
- Ischemia
- Nephrotoxic drugs
- Dehydration
These factors can lead to decreased kidney function and urine output.
What are the symptoms of oliguria in renal failure?
- Fluid overload
- Hyperkalemia
- Uremia
- Confusion
- Nausea
- ECG changes
ECG changes can include peaked T-waves due to hyperkalemia.
What is the treatment for oliguria?
- Manage fluid balance
- Treat cause
- Dialysis if needed
Dialysis may be required in cases of severe renal failure.
What are the etiologies of gastroenteritis?
- Viral (norovirus)
- Bacterial (Salmonella)
- Parasitic
Gastroenteritis can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis?
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Hypotension
Severe dehydration can lead to hypotensive crisis.
What is the management for gastroenteritis?
Fluid and electrolyte replacement, antiemetics
Antiemetics help manage nausea and vomiting.
What are the types of hepatitis?
- Hep A: Fecal-oral, acute only
- Hep B: Bloodborne, chronic possibility
- Hep C: Bloodborne, chronic common
Each type of hepatitis has different transmission routes and long-term implications.
What are the symptoms of hepatitis?
- Jaundice
- RUQ pain
- Fatigue
- Elevated liver enzymes
RUQ pain is located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
What is the treatment for Hepatitis A and E?
Supportive care
Hepatitis B and C may require antivirals.
What is a TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)?
Temporary loss of brain perfusion; resolves within 24 hrs
TIAs are often warning signs of future strokes.
What are the symptoms of a TIA?
Stroke-like symptoms that fully resolve
Symptoms may include weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.
What is the management for a TIA?
Transport for full evaluation
Immediate medical evaluation is critical after a TIA.
What are the types of seizures?
- Generalized
- Focal
- Absence
Each type of seizure has distinct characteristics and management.
What are the causes of seizures?
- Epilepsy
- Hypoglycemia
- Trauma
- Toxins
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.