EMT Trauma Study Sheet Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards based on EMT trauma study sheet.

Index of Suspicion

The anticipation of the type and severity of injuries based on the mechanism of injury.

Kinetic Energy

The energy of motion; calculated as KE = ½ mv². More speed = more potential for injury.

Blunt Trauma

No skin break, internal damage likely (e.g., car crash).

Penetrating Trauma

Object breaks skin and enters body (e.g., stab, gunshot).

Perfusion

Delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells and removal of waste.

Hypoperfusion (Shock)

Inadequate perfusion to tissues; leads to organ failure if untreated.

Hypovolemic Shock

Caused by blood or fluid loss; less volume = less perfusion.

Waste Product of Metabolism

Carbon dioxide (CO2), lactic acid (anaerobic metabolism).

Hemorrhagic Shock

A form of hypovolemic shock from uncontrolled bleeding.

Septic Shock

Caused by severe infection; blood vessels dilate and leak.

Abrasions

Superficial damage to epidermis; road rash.

Contusion

Bruise; blood vessel damage under intact skin.

Hematomas

Larger blood collection under skin; may compress tissues.

Compartment Syndrome

Increased pressure within a muscle compartment cuts off circulation. Often seen in crush injuries.

Crush Syndrome

After prolonged compression, toxic metabolites released when pressure is lifted; can cause kidney failure.

Lacerations

Deep cuts or tears in skin/tissue.

Eviscerations

Organs protruding through a wound.

First Degree (Superficial) Burn

Red, no blisters (burn).

Second Degree (Partial Thickness) Burn

Blisters, painful (burn).

Third Degree (Full Thickness) Burn

White/charred, may be painless due to nerve damage (burn).

Hemoptysis

Coughing up blood; suggests lung injury or infection.

Pneumothorax

Air in pleural space leading to lung collapse.

Subcutaneous Emphysema

Air under skin; feels like bubble wrap; indicates chest injury.

Hematuria

Blood in urine; may indicate kidney or bladder trauma.

Tendons

Connect muscle to bone.

Ligaments

Connect bone to bone.

Pathological Fractures

Result from weakened bone (e.g., cancer, osteoporosis).

Epiphyseal Plate

Growth plate in children’s bones; injury may affect growth.