MEDIC: More Assessment

Introduction

  • Importance of monitoring patient saturation and providing proper ventilation

  • Emphasis on structured breathing techniques during emergency situations

Ventilation Techniques

  • Timing for ventilation:

    • Adult patients: once every six seconds

    • Pediatric patients (age-variable):

      • Two-year-olds: approximately once every three seconds

      • Teens: return to six seconds

  • Volume considerations:

    • Target tidal volume for ventilations: 6-8 cc/kg

    • Avoid overinflation to minimize risks (e.g., pneumothorax)

Equipment Usage

  • Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM):

    • Adult BVM for non-innervated adults, specially if more gas volume is needed

    • Utilization of a child BVM may be appropriate for innervated adults, but prioritize a tighter seal with adult-sized devices

  • Complications from BVM:

    • Poor mask seal

    • Hyperventilation leading to CO2 drops

    • Gastric distention from excessive air intake

    • Barotrauma injuries

Breathing Assessment

  • Evaluation of patient’s breathing:

    • Monitor general ventilation: shallow, irregular, or erratic patterns

    • A focus on fast shallow breathing could indicate the need for BVM intervention

  • Assess skin conditions:

    • Yellow skin: liver issues

    • Rash: potential infection

    • Pale skin: hypovolemic

Prioritizing Assessment Steps

  • Focus on immediate interventions that aid patient breathing

  • Listening to breath sounds should occur early in the assessment phase

    • Use of stethoscope upon identifying need based on the patient’s complaints

Transport Decisions

  • Patient Priority Assessment:

    • Determine if a patient requires immediate transport or can be assessed further on-scene

    • Consider logistics associated with transporting patients, such as stair access or equipment needs

Key Reminders During Procedures

  • Be proactive about assessing ventilation and avoid assumptions regarding hospital locations and transport time

  • Remain adaptable to transport dynamics: partners may leave during transport, requiring individual reassessments

Conclusion

  • Importance of systematic assessments and interventions in emergency medical services

  • Encouragement for continuous practice and situational awareness to improve efficiency and care quality.