EMS Basic and Advanced Care: Key Concepts and Protocols

What significant white paper was published in 1966 related to traffic crashes?

Accidental Death and Disability: The Neglected Disease of Modern Society, detailing deaths and injuries from traffic crashes and deficiencies in prehospital care.

What are the primary roles and responsibilities of an EMT?

Provides basic emergency care and transportation using ambulance resources and limited medications.

What advanced skills does a Paramedic possess?

Advanced assessment and patient management skills, providing the highest level of prehospital care including field impression and invasive drug interventions.

What types of personal protective equipment (PPE) are commonly used in EMS?

Eye protection, gloves, gowns, and masks.

What are the two main types of exposure forms in EMS?

Airborne (e.g., TB) and bloodborne (e.g., HIV/AIDS, HBV).

Describe the correct procedure for hand washing.

Wet hands, lather with soap, scrub between fingers, rinse, and dry.

What is a communicable disease and how can its spread be prevented?

A disease that can be transmitted from one person to another; prevention includes using PPE, hand washing, disinfecting/sterilization, and body substance isolation (BSI).

What should be done if hazardous materials are suspected at a scene?

Call the hazmat team for assistance.

What is the incubation period for HIV?

Months.

What are the transmission methods for Hepatitis B and C?

Transmitted sexually, through blood, needlestick, transplacental, or human bite; incubation lasts weeks to months.

What does DNR stand for and what does it signify?

Do Not Resuscitate; an advanced directive document indicating that a patient does not wish to receive resuscitation.

What steps should be taken if a patient refuses care?

Perform an assessment, persuade the patient, explain risks, document care, and have the refusal form signed.

What are the types of consent in EMS?

Informed, expressed, implied, minor, and involuntary consent.

What does HIPAA stand for and what is its purpose?

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; it protects patient confidentiality.

What are the normal vital signs for an adult?

HR: 60-80 bpm, Glucose: 70-140 mg/dl, Temp: 97.7-99.5°F, BP: 120/80 mmHg, Respiration: 12-20 breaths/min.

What is the significance of the pulse points in vital sign assessment?

They are locations where the pulse can be felt, including radial, brachial, carotid, femoral, popliteal, and tibial.

What is the mechanism of injury (MOI)?

The method by which an injury was caused, considering strength, direction, and nature.

What is the nature of illness (NOI)?

The cause of symptoms, which may include the presence of substances and the patient's condition.

What is the standard dose of aspirin administered in EMS?

324 mg PO.

What is the role of activated charcoal in EMS?

Administered at a dose of 1 mg/kg to absorb toxins.

What is the typical administration route for Albuterol?

2.5 mg via nebulizer or aerosol.

What is polypharmacy?

The concurrent use of five or more medications daily.

What causes snoring in patients?

Constriction of upper airways due to muscle relaxation.

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