EMS Foundations
What national organization maintains certification standards for paramedics?
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT)
What is “informed consent”?
Patient’s voluntary agreement after understanding treatment and risks
What is the primary goal of airway management?
Maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation
What are the three components of pulse assessment?
Rate, rhythm, and amplitude
What is the importance of pre-arrival instructions?
Guides bystanders before EMS arrival
What condition is characterized by fluid in the alveoli?
Pulmonary edema
What emotional challenges occur when treating pediatric patients during death/dying situations?
Limited understanding of death and high family distress
What is the main goal of Crew Resource Management in EMS?
To reduce human error and enhance team communication and safety
What benefit does medical direction provide to field providers?
Provides clinical oversight and quality assurance (online/offline)
What is the difference between scope of practice and standard of care?
Scope = what you can do legally; Standard = how well you must do it
What causes upper airway obstruction?
Tongue, foreign body, swelling, or trauma
What limits the ability to perform a full physical exam in the field?
Scene hazards, lighting, patient access, and time constraints
What is a “simplex” communication system?
One-way radio transmission at a time
What causes emphysema?
Alveolar wall destruction and loss of elasticity
How can paramedics support dying patients’ families?
Compassion, clear communication, and inclusion when appropriate
Name one key CRM principle.
Communication, teamwork, situational awareness, or decision-making
What does “due regard” mean when operating an emergency vehicle?
Operating safely with concern for others on the road
When is restraint legally justified?
When a patient is a danger to themselves or others
What are the normal respiratory rates for adult, child, and infant?
Adult: 12–20, Child: 15–30, Infant: 25–50
Why is trending vital signs important?
Shows improvement or deterioration over time
What is a “duplex” system?
Allows two-way communication simultaneously
What medication is commonly used for asthma?
Albuterol (beta2-agonist)
Why is respecting elderly independence important?
Preserves dignity and mental health
What is “situational awareness”?
Understanding what’s happening around you and anticipating next steps
How did the 1966 “White Paper” influence EMS?
It identified deficiencies in prehospital care and led to the development of modern EMS
What is the purpose of accurate documentation?
Provides legal protection and continuity of patient care
What is one contraindication for nasotracheal intubation?
Apnea, facial trauma, or suspected basilar skull fracture
What’s the difference between a trauma and medical detailed exam?
Trauma = head-to-toe; Medical = focused based on complaint
Why is written documentation essential?
Ensures accurate legal and clinical records
What oxygen device provides 90–100% oxygen at 10–15 L/min?
Non-rebreather mask
How can paramedics support parents of special needs children?
Empathy, reassurance, and inclusion in care decisions
How does effective leadership improve crew performance?
Promotes trust, clear direction, and accountability
What is one benefit of paramedics teaching in their community?
Improves public education, prevention, and local EMS engagement
How should a paramedic handle an advance directive?
Verify validity, follow state law, and document thoroughly
Define atelectasis.
Collapse of alveoli leading to decreased gas exchange
What is a “pertinent negative”?
Expected finding that is absent but helps form a differential diagnosis
What is one factor that impedes effective communication?
Noise, emotional stress, or unclear radio traffic
What is a spontaneous pneumothorax?
Air in pleural space due to alveolar rupture
What does body substance isolation (BSI) protect against?
Reduces risk of pathogen transmission
Describe a barrier to effective CRM.
Ego, poor communication, fatigue, or lack of mutual respect