Assisting with a Medical Emergency
What is the first action a medical assistant should take when discovering an unresponsive patient?
Check for responsiveness and call for help or activate the emergency response system.
How many milligrams are in 1 gram?
1,000 mg
Which gland is known as the “master gland” of the endocrine system?
The pituitary gland
What is the purpose of performing an EKG?
To measure the electrical activity of the heart.
What is the most common site for venipuncture?
The median cubital vein
What position should a patient experiencing shock be placed in?
Supine position with legs elevated (Trendelenburg if tolerated).
What formula is used to calculate the correct drug dose?
Desired / Have × Quantity = Dose to give
Which hormone regulates blood sugar by allowing cells to absorb glucose?
Insulin
-Produced by the pancreas, insulin acts like a key, enabling glucose to move from the bloodstream into cells to be used for energy or stored for later.
How many standard leads are used in a 12-lead EKG?
10 leads
What is the angle of needle insertion for a venipuncture?
15 to 30 degrees
What should be done if a patient begins seizing during a blood draw?
Stop the procedure, move hazardous items away, protect the patient’s head, and do not restrain.
A physician orders 0.25 g of ampicillin. The label reads 250 mg per tablet. How many tablets will you give?
1 tablet (0.25 g = 250 mg)
What condition results from the underproduction of thyroid hormones?
Hypothyroidism
Which wave on the EKG represents atrial depolarization?
The P wave
Why should the tourniquet not be left on for more than one minute?
It can cause hemoconcentration and affect test results.
What is the universal emergency number in the United States?
911
Convert 2.5 liters to milliliters.
2,500 mL
What hormone is produced by the adrenal medulla during “fight or flight”?
Epinephrine (adrenaline)
Which part of the EKG tracing represents ventricular repolarization?
The T wave
What is the order of operation for ending a venipuncture?
T T N (Tube, Tourniquet, Needle)
What does the acronym RACE stand for in fire safety response?
Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish or Evacuate.
A doctor orders 500 mg of medication. You have 250 mg/mL on hand. How many milliliters will you administer?
2 mL (500 ÷ 250 = 2)
What disorder is caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body not responding to it properly?
Diabetes mellitus
What should you do if an EKG tracing shows somatic tremor (muscle movement artifact)?
Ask the patient to relax, keep still, and ensure they are comfortable and warm.
What should be done if blood flow stops during venipuncture?
Reposition the needle slightly, ensure the tube is properly seated, or try a new site if necessary.