Sepsis
What common bacterial infection is most often linked with the development of sepsis in a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
Escherichia coli (E. coli).
What is the primary function of white blood cells?
To fight infections and protect the body from foreign invaders.
Which of the following is a common vector for Lyme disease?
The black-legged (deer) tick.
What is the most common initial symptom of heat stroke?
Hot, dry skin and altered mental status.
What is the primary symptom of a benzodiazepine overdose?
Sedation and respiratory depression.
Which of the following is an early indicator of sepsis in a trauma patient?
Tachycardia and hypotension.
What is the most common cause of anemia in the elderly population?
Iron deficiency or chronic disease.
What is the most common transmission route for hepatitis C?
Blood-to-blood contact, often through sharing needles.
What is the best method to treat a snake bite from a venomous species in the field?
Keep the affected limb immobilized and at or below the level of the heart, and transport to a medical facility.
Which of the following is a major risk associated with carbon monoxide poisoning?
Hypoxia due to the displacement of oxygen from hemoglobin by carboxyhemoglobin.
What is the primary reason why early fluid resuscitation is critical in sepsis management?
Early fluid resuscitation helps to restore tissue perfusion and prevent organ failure.
In a trauma patient, why is a low hemoglobin level concerning?
It suggests significant blood loss and a potential for hypovolemic shock.
What is the most effective pre-hospital treatment for an individual bitten by an animal suspected of having rabies?
Immediate wound cleaning and transport for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin.
In a cold-weather environment, what is the primary concern in treating a patient with frostbite?
Rewarming the tissue carefully without causing further injury, such as through immersion in warm water or using heated blankets.
In the management of a patient with acute cocaine overdose, what is the first-line treatment for agitation and hypertension?
Benzodiazepines for sedation and to manage hypertension.
What role does the procalcitonin level play in identifying sepsis, and how can it guide treatment decisions?
Elevated procalcitonin levels indicate a bacterial infection, which can help confirm sepsis and guide antibiotic therapy.
How is polycythemia vera diagnosed, and what is a primary treatment for this condition?
It is diagnosed through blood tests showing an elevated red blood cell count, and the primary treatment is phlebotomy to reduce blood viscosity.
In a patient with suspected meningococcal meningitis, what is the priority pre-hospital intervention?
Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics as soon as possible and isolate the patient to prevent transmission.
What is the significance of the "after-drop" phenomenon in hypothermic patients?
After-drop refers to the rewarming of the core after peripheral vasodilation, which can lead to a further drop in core temperature.
What is the main treatment for ingestion of a corrosive substance like bleach, and why is neutralization not recommended?
Rinse the mouth with water and avoid inducing vomiting. Neutralization is not recommended because it can generate heat and cause further damage to the esophagus and stomach.
In the management of septic shock, why is vasopressor therapy like norepinephrine considered essential if the patient remains hypotensive despite adequate fluid resuscitation?
Norepinephrine helps to constrict blood vessels, raising blood pressure and ensuring adequate perfusion of vital organs, which is crucial in septic shock management.
In patients with hemophilia, what immediate treatment is necessary following a bleeding injury?
Administration of clotting factor concentrate to replace the missing clotting factor and prevent further bleeding.
In managing a patient with suspected sepsis caused by a fungal infection like Candida, what special consideration is necessary in choosing the right antifungal therapy?
The choice of antifungal should be based on the patient's immune status, the organism's susceptibility, and the need for broad-spectrum coverage if the exact pathogen is unknown.
Why is rapid descent in cases of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) critical, and how does it work physiologically?
Descending rapidly reduces the atmospheric pressure and increases oxygen availability, helping relieve pulmonary edema by improving oxygen saturation and perfusion.
What is the primary treatment for a patient who has ingested a large amount of ethanol (alcohol)?
Supportive care, including monitoring for hypoglycemia and dehydration, and providing intravenous fluids if necessary. In severe cases, thiamine should be administered to prevent Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.