Syncope
What is the first action you should take if a patient faints in the dental chair?
Ensure the patient is in a supine position (lying down) to improve blood flow to the brain.
What is a common sign of a mild allergic reaction?
Hives or skin rash.
What is the common symptom of a heart attack that might occur in a dental office?
Chest pain or discomfort.
What should you do first if a patient starts having a seizure in the dental chair?
Move any objects away from the patient to prevent injury.
What is a common cause of respiratory distress in a dental office?
Anxiety or panic attack.
Name two signs that a patient might be about to faint.
Dizziness and pale skin.
Which medication should be administered for an anaphylactic reaction?
Epinephrine.
Which medication can be given to a patient suspected of having a heart attack, if not contraindicated?
Aspirin.
How long do most seizures last?
1 to 3 minutes.
Name a sign of severe respiratory distress.
Cyanosis (bluish coloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen).
After a patient faints, what vital sign should be monitored upon their recovery?
Blood Pressure.
Name two possible allergens in a dental setting.
Latex and local anesthetics.
Name a risk factor for a cardiac event.
High blood pressure.
Name one thing you should not do when a patient is having a seizure.
Do not try to hold the patient down or put anything in their mouth.
What piece of equipment can be used to assist breathing in a patient experiencing respiratory distress?
Oxygen mask or nasal cannula.
What condition often precedes fainting and involves a temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain?
Orthostatic hypotension.
What vital signs should be monitored in a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction?
Blood pressure and respiratory rate.
What is the first step in responding to a cardiac arrest in the dental office?
Call for emergency medical services and start CPR.
After a seizure ends, what position should the patient be placed in?
Recovery position (side-lying)
Which condition is characterized by an obstruction of the airway by a foreign object?
Choking.
List one reason why a patient might faint in a dental office.
Anxiety or fear of dental procedures.
Describe the difference between a mild allergic reaction and anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that affects multiple body systems, while a mild allergic reaction may only involve skin or localized symptoms.
Describe one difference between the symptoms of a heart attack in men and women.
Women are more likely to experience symptoms such as back or jaw pain, shortness of breath, and nausea or vomiting.
What type of seizure is characterized by stiffening of muscles and loss of consciousness?
Tonic-clonic seizure.
Describe the initial action to take for a patient experiencing an asthma attack and not responding to their inhaler.
Call for emergency medical services immediately.