West Coast EMT Block 4 Quiz

Laceration

A deep, jagged cut in the skin

Perfusion

The circulation of blood within an organ or tissue in adequate amounts to meet the current needs of the cells

Cavitation

A phenomenon in which speed causes a bullet to generate pressure waves, which cause damage distant from the bullets path

Atrophy

The wasting away of a body organ or tissue, any progressive decline or failure, to waste away

Placement of tourniquets

Place the tourniquet around the extremity high and tight, proximal to the bleeding site (in the axillary region for upper extremity injuries and at the groin for lower extremity injuries)

Cervical Collar different things you can use

First try pediatric collar- highest setting on pediatric collar is a small in adult collar- if that doesn't work use rolled up towels.

Significant incidents of head injuries

Falls and motor vehicle most significance mechanisms of injuries

Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic insult to the brain capable of producing physical, intelectual, emotional, social, and vocational changes

Primary (Direct) injury

Injury to the brain and its associated structures that results instantaneously from impact to the head

Secondary (Indirect) injury

A multitude of processes that increase the severity of a primary brain injury and, therefore, negatively affect the outcome

Cerebral edema

swelling of the brain

Epideral hematoma

Blood between the skull and dura matter

Subdural hematoma

Blood beneath the dura mater outside the brain

Intracerebral hematoma

Bleeding within the brain tissue itself

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

bleeding occurs into the subarachnoid space where the CSF circulates

intacranial pressure

Squeezes the brain against bony prominences within the cranium

S/S:

Cheyne Stokes

Ataxic respirations

Decreased pulse rate

Bradycardia

widened pulse pressure

Headache

Nausea

Vomiting

Concussion

There is no universal definition of a concussion, but in general, it is a TBI with a temporary loss of alteration of part or all of the brain's abilities to function without demonstrable physical damage to the brain.

Signs and Symptoms of a concussion

Confused

Dizziness

Visual changes or changes in mood

Nausea Vomiting

Ringing in the ears

Slurred speech

Lack of coordination

Delayed motor functions

Cerebral Contusion

the bruising of brain tissue as the result of a head injury that causes the brain to bounce against the rigid bone of the skull

Signs and Symptoms of a contusion

--decreased mental status or unresponsive

--paralysis

--unequal pupils

--vomiting

--alteration of vital signs

--profound personality changes