Vital Signs & Monitoring
What’s a normal respiratory rate for an adult?
→ 12–20 breaths per minute.
What’s the most common symptom of a heart attack?
→ Chest pain or discomfort.
What is the most common treatment for mild shortness of breath?
→ Administer oxygen.
What is a normal blood glucose range for an adult?
→ About 80–120 mg/dL (or 70–140 depending on protocols).
What’s the first thing to assess after PPE and scene safety?
→ Level of consciousness (AVPU or responsiveness).
What tool is used to check oxygen saturation?
→ Pulse oximeter.
What does “ASA” stand for, and when is it given?
→ Aspirin; given for suspected cardiac chest pain.
What is wheezing a sign of?
→ Narrowed lower airways (asthma, COPD).
What do you give to a responsive diabetic with low blood sugar?
→ Oral glucose (if they can swallow).
What does SAMPLE stand for?
→ Signs/Symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last oral intake, Events leading up.
What does a blood pressure of 90/60 indicate?
→ Low blood pressure (hypotension).
What does nitroglycerin do?
→ Relaxes blood vessels to reduce chest pain.
What condition causes crackles in the lungs and shortness of breath?
→ Congestive heart failure (CHF).
What are three signs of hypoglycemia?
→ Confusion, pale/sweaty skin, shakiness, rapid pulse.
What is OPQRST used for?
→ To assess pain or discomfort.
Name three places to check a pulse.
→ Radial, carotid, femoral.
Name two contraindications for nitroglycerin.
→ Low BP (<90 systolic), or ED meds within 24–48 hours.
What medication is used for asthma patients with a prescription?
→ Albuterol via metered-dose inhaler (MDI).
What is one key difference between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?
→ Hypo: fast onset; Hyper: slow onset.
What is a “general impression” during your primary assessment?
→ Your first observation of the patient’s condition.
When should you reassess vital signs in a stable vs. unstable patient?
→ Stable: every 15 minutes; Unstable: every 5 minutes.
What’s the difference between angina and a heart attack?
→ Angina is temporary and usually goes away with rest; a heart attack is prolonged and caused by a blockage.
What is the difference between respiratory distress and respiratory failure?
→ Distress: patient is still compensating; Failure: breathing is inadequate or stops.
What is the blood glucose level threshold for hypoglycemia in most EMS systems?
→ Typically below 60–70 mg/dL.
What findings in the primary assessment indicate a high-priority patient?
→ Unresponsive, difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or chest pain.