EMT notes

Medical Overview

A comprehensive introduction to medical emergencies and their management.

Patient Assessment

The process of evaluating a patient's condition through scene size-up, primary assessment, history taking, secondary assessment, and reassessment.

Scene Size-up

The initial step in patient assessment to assess the scene for safety, number of patients, and mechanism of injury.

Primary Assessment

A rapid evaluation to identify life-threatening conditions and establish priorities for treatment.

Secondary Assessment

A thorough examination following the primary assessment to identify additional injuries or conditions.

Management, Transport, and Destination

The process of managing the patient's care, deciding on transport methods, and selecting the appropriate medical facility.

Infectious Diseases

Diseases caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

HIV Infection

A viral infection that attacks the immune system, potentially leading to AIDS.

Meningitis

An infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A progressive lung disease that obstructs airflow and makes breathing difficult.

Pulmonary Embolism

A blockage in a pulmonary artery in the lungs, usually caused by blood clots.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

A portable device that automatically diagnoses and treats life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.

Seizures

Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain which can lead to changes in behavior, movements, feelings, or consciousness.

Epinephrine

A medication used in emergencies to treat severe allergic reactions and cardiac arrest.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of the female reproductive organs that can lead to serious consequences if untreated.

Behavioral Crisis

A situation involving an individual exhibiting disruptive behaviors due to psychiatric disorders.