EMR Medical Emergencies and Special Populations Flashcards

During a behavioral emergency, which approach is most effective when communicating with an agitated patient?

Answer: Use calm, non-threatening language and maintain a safe distance

Calm, quiet communication and maintaining a safe, non-threatening posture helps de-escalate a behavioral emergency.

What is the pediatric assessment triangle (PAT) used to evaluate?

Answer: Appearance, work of breathing, and circulation to skin

The PAT rapidly assesses a child's appearance (tone, interactivity), work of breathing (retractions, sounds), and skin circulation (color, mottling).

A patient experiencing a stroke shows right-sided facial droop and arm weakness. In which hemisphere is the stroke most likely located?

Answer: Left hemisphere

Motor deficits are contralateral — right-sided weakness indicates a stroke in the left cerebral hemisphere.

Which finding during the SAMPLE history best indicates a patient may be experiencing an acute myocardial infarction?

Answer: Squeezing chest pain radiating to the left arm with diaphoresis

Classic AMI symptoms include squeezing or pressure chest pain, radiation to the left arm or jaw, and accompanying diaphoresis.

A mother reports her 2-year-old ingested an unknown household chemical. What is the EMR's first action?

Answer: Contact Poison Control and gather information about the substance

The first step is contacting Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) to get expert guidance based on the specific substance ingested.

When managing a geriatric patient, which consideration is most important regarding medication history?

Answer: Polypharmacy is common and can complicate or mimic emergencies

Polypharmacy in elderly patients can cause drug interactions, alter vital signs, or mimic medical emergencies, making a full medication review critical.