Ch. 2: Workforce Safety and Wellness of an EMT

Signs of burnout.

Irritability, unable to concentrate, difficulty sleeping, anxiety/guilt

What’s the most important thing to do to prevent spreading infections?

Handwashing

Types of PPE and when they should be used.

Gloves, goggles, gowns, masks

How is HIV transmitted?

Body fluid (sexual contact, needles, birth)

Why are patients with AIDS more susceptible to infections?

HIV weakens the immune systen

How are hepatitis B and hepatitis C communicated?

Body fluid (sexual contact, needles, birth)

What should you wear as tuberculosis protection?

Gloves, mask, eye protection, gowns

Defusing

up to eight hours after the incident; venting/informal

CISD

one to three days after incident; structured and expensive debriefing

Five stages of grief

denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance

Acute stress reaction

normal in high-stress situations; sweating, increased HR, shaking

Delayed stress reaction

PTSD; dreams, irritability, insomnia, flashbacks

Cumulative stress reaction

delayed, built up stress; physical ailments, burnout/exhaustion

Standard precautions

BSI/PPE