Neurological safety

Question 1

How can you minimize permanent disability caused by a blood-flow interruption to the brain?

Answer 1

Acting fast (prompt medical attention), administering oxygen ASAP

Question 2

What is F-A-S-T?

Answer 2

Signs of neurological condition
F - facial droop
A - arm weakness
S - speech difficulty, sudden severe headache
T - time (note time)

Question 3

What is the purpose of collecting an injured diver’s history?

Answer 3

Allows for more accurate context for assessment of condition and proper care

Question 4

What is S-A-M-P-L-E?

Answer 4

Assessment when symptoms are obscure - proceeding neurological examination
S - signs/symptoms
A - allergies
M - medications
P - Pertinent medical history
L - last oral intake
E - events leading to situation

Question 5

Four functional areas of a neurological assessment?

Answer 5

Mental function
Cranial nerves
Motor function (strength)
Coordination and balance

Question 6

Functions are evaluated in the “cranial nerves” section of the neurological
assessment?

Answer 6

Facial movement asymmetry, speech, alterations in eye movement

Question 7

What is assessed during the “mental function” section?

Answer 7

Orientation (name, location, time, reason for being there)
“person, place, time, event”
Responsiveness
A(lert) - V(erbal) - P(ainful) - U(nresponsive)

Question 8

How do motor-function deficits manifest?

Answer 8

Weakness, paralysis (compared to other side of body)

Question 9

How are balance and coordination evaluated?

Answer 9

Coordination - Finger-nose-finger test

Balance - walking straight line, Romberg test (eyes closed, feet together, arms out)