Define
What is meant by fluid exposure in emergency care?
Contact with a patient’s blood or other potentially infectious material through skin, eyes, mouth, or broken skin that can allow disease transmission.
What should you do if pesticide or another toxic dry chemical gets on your clothing?
Brush off as much of the dry chemical as possible before rinsing or applying water. Then flush the affected skin with large amounts of water.
What is one of the most common ways communicable diseases are transmitted?
Through airborne droplets spread by coughing, sneezing, or talking, which can carry infectious agents through the air to others.
What happens during a generalized tonic–clonic seizure?
The entire brain is involved, causing sudden loss of consciousness, body stiffening (tonic phase), followed by rhythmic jerking (clonic phase). Often followed by confusion or fatigue (postictal state).
What is hypoglycemia and what are its common signs and symptoms?
Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar, often from too much insulin, not eating enough, or overexertion.
Signs/Symptoms: Pale, cool, clammy skin; shakiness; sweating; headache; hunger; confusion; irritability; possible seizures or loss of consciousness if untreated.
(Think: “Cold and clammy — need some candy.”)
What does contamination refer to?
The presence of hazardous or infectious material—such as blood, chemicals, or pathogens—on clothing, equipment, or skin.
What is inhalation as a route of exposure?
Breathing in toxic gases, fumes, or airborne particles, which can enter the lungs and bloodstream and cause local or systemic harm.
What safety steps should you take when caring for a patient who is having a seizure?
Protect the patient by ensuring a clear, risk-free environment. Remove nearby hazards, loosen tight clothing, and place something soft under their head if possible. Do not put anything in their mouth or try to restrain them—let the seizure run its course. Afterward, check airway, breathing, and circulation, and place the patient in the recovery position once the seizure stops.
What are the key signs of a simple partial seizure?
Only one part of the brain is affected, causing localized twitching or sensory changes. The person remains fully conscious and aware.
What is meningitis and what are the common signs and symptoms?
Meningitis is an infection and inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It causes severe headache, neck stiffness, light sensitivity, fever, and pain when bending the neck forward (chin to chest).
What is a communicable disease?
An illness that can be spread from one person to another through direct contact, airborne droplets, or other transmission routes.
What is ingestion as a route of exposure?
Swallowing contaminated substances, such as food, water, or chemicals, which can harm the digestive system and internal organs.
What are the common signs and symptoms of a stroke?
Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body; facial droop; slurred or difficult speech; vision changes; loss of balance or coordination; severe headache; or AMS.
(Remember FAST: Face, Arm, Speech, Time)
Extra: Why do we need to know time? Because every minute of delay means more potential brain damage and helps determine eligibility for treatments like clot-busting medication.
(Remember: “Time is brain.”)
What characterizes an absence seizure?
Brief loss of awareness without convulsions—often a blank stare, eyelid fluttering, or brief pause in activity. Usually lasts only a few seconds and the person resumes activity with no memory of it.
A patient presents with headache, dizziness, and nausea. What should you consider as a possible cause?
These are classic signs of carbon monoxide (CO) or other toxic gas exposure. CO is colorless and odorless, so consider environmental sources like gas appliances, heaters, or confined spaces. Prompt removal from exposure and oxygen therapy are essential.
How is an infectious disease defined?
A disease caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that invade and multiply within the body, potentially causing illness.
What is absorption as a route of exposure?
When chemicals pass through the skin or eyes, potentially causing local irritation or systemic effects if absorbed into the bloodstream.
What are the common signs and symptoms of a migraine headache?
Severe, throbbing head pain—often on one side—sometimes preceded by an aura (visual changes or warning sensations). Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, blurred vision, and fatigue. The pain can last for hours to days.
What defines a complex partial seizure?
Involves one area of the brain but causes impaired consciousness. The person may appear awake but be confused, perform repetitive movements, or not respond appropriately.
What is hyperglycemia and what are its common signs and symptoms?
Hyperglycemia is high blood sugar, often from too little insulin, infection, stress, or overeating.
**Signs/Symptoms: Warm, dry skin; increased thirst and urination; fatigue; nausea; fruity (acetone) breath; deep, rapid breathing; possible progression to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
( “Hot and dry — sugar’s high.”)
Define status epilepticus.
A prolonged seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or repeated seizures without full recovery between them.
What is injection as a route of exposure?
Introduction of a toxin directly into the body through a puncture, bite, or needle stick, allowing rapid entry into tissues or bloodstream.
What is lactic acid and why is it produced in the body?
Lactic acid is a waste product formed when cells break down glucose for energy without enough oxygen (anaerobic metabolism). It builds up during shock, cardiac arrest, or intense exercise and can cause muscle fatigue and contribute to metabolic acidosis.
What is included in the central nervous system (CNS)?
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, which process information and coordinate activity throughout the body.
What condition can cause constricted pupils, excessive tearing, salivation, and vomiting?
Organophosphate or cholinergic poisoning (commonly from pesticides or nerve agents). These chemicals overstimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to the symptoms described.