Environmental Emergencies 1
What is Hyperthermia?
This occurs when the body’s heat gain exceeds its ability to dissipate heat
What is radiation?
Radiation emits heat into the surrounding environment.
Define drowning according to current EMS terminology.
Drowning is respiratory impairment from submersion or immersion in liquid, regardless of survival. Immediate airway and ventilation support are critical for positive outcomes.
Define a psychiatric emergency and how it differs from a behavioral crisis.
A psychiatric emergency involves abnormal thoughts, mood, or behavior that threaten the safety of the patient or others. A behavioral crisis may include agitation or emotional distress but doesn’t always involve immediate danger or mental illness.
Define cultural humility.
Cultural humility emphasizes lifelong learning, self-reflection, and respect for patients’ beliefs.
What is how the body regulates internal temperature?
The hypothalamus controls thermoregulation by triggering sweating, vasodilation.
What is evaporation?
Evaporation removes heat as sweat vaporizes from the skin.
What factors most affect survivability after a submersion injury?
Water temperature, submersion time, and speed of rescue determine prognosis. Cold water may provide some protective effect by slowing metabolism.
Why is it important to consider medical causes of altered behavior before assuming a psychiatric cause?
Many medical conditions—like hypoxia, hypoglycemia, head injury, or intoxication—can mimic psychiatric symptoms. EMTs must always rule out medical issues before diagnosing behavioral causes.
How can cultural humility improve patient communication and outcomes?
It builds trust and reduces misunderstanding. Patients are more likely to share accurate information when they feel respected, leading to better assessment and care.
What are the primary mechanisms of heat transfer in the human body?
What are conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporation.
Explain how humidity affects the body’s ability to cool itself.
High humidity prevents efficient evaporation of sweat, trapping heat and raising body temperature.
What special considerations apply to cold-water drownings?
Cold water may preserve brain function by slowing oxygen use. Continue resuscitation until the patient is warm and declared deceased by medical control.
What questions should be asked to assess suicide risk in a patient expressing self-harm thoughts?
Ask direct but compassionate questions about intent, specific plans, and access to means. Never leave the patient alone, and transport under supervision for evaluation.
What are the warning signs of human trafficking, and how should you respond?
Red flags include inconsistent stories, signs of abuse, and a controlling companion who won’t let the patient speak. Ensure safety, separate the patient privately, and report suspicions discreetly.
What is conduction?
Conduction is direct heat exchange through physical contact
Describe the signs and symptoms of heat cramps.
Heat cramps cause painful muscle spasms from electrolyte loss.
How should the EMT manage suspected spinal injury in a water rescue situation?
Stabilize the head and neck in-line while still in the water, and use a backboard for removal. Avoid twisting or lifting the patient vertically.
List common warning signs that a patient may become violent
Clenched fists, rapid breathing, pacing, verbal threats, or a fixed stare can all signal escalating aggression. Recognizing these early signs helps prevent injury to the patient or crew.
When should EMS notify law enforcement or social services regarding suspected abuse?
When there’s reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect, EMTs are legally required to report it. Documentation should be factual and objective, never speculative.
What is convection?
Convection transfers heat via air or water movement.
Describe the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion leads to dizziness, heavy sweating, and nausea. Heat stroke is a medical emergency marked by altered mental status, hot dry skin, and body temperature above 104°F.
What signs might suggest a neck or back injury in a diving accident?
Pain, numbness, paralysis, or deformity following a head-first entry into shallow water indicates spinal trauma.
How should you communicate with a patient experiencing hallucinations or delusions?
Speak calmly, clearly, and respectfully. Avoid arguing with their perceptions—acknowledge their feelings while gently grounding them in reality and focusing on safety.
What key information should be documented when reporting potential abuse or trafficking?
Include patient statements in their own words, observed injuries, environmental clues, and names of involved parties. Avoid speculation and maintain patient confidentiality per local protocols.