Flashcard library · Nursing & Medicine
EMT Basics: Vital Signs & Assessment
Master the foundational skills of vital sign assessment and patient evaluation crucial for every EMT. This deck covers essential assessment techniques, normal ranges, and mnemonic devices to help you confidently gather critical patient information. Prepare for your exams and real-world scenarios by solidifying your understanding of these core EMT basics.
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What are the components of a primary assessment in a medical patient?
General impression, assess level of consciousness (AVPU), assess airway, assess breathing, assess circulation, determine priority of transport.
What does the mnemonic 'AVPU' stand for in assessing a patient's level of consciousness?
Alert, Verbal, Painful, Unresponsive. It helps categorize a patient's responsiveness.
What is the normal adult resting pulse rate range?
The normal adult resting pulse rate is typically between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
How do you assess a patient's respirations?
Observe the rate, rhythm, and quality (depth, effort) of breathing, noting any abnormal sounds or accessory muscle use.
What is the normal adult resting respiratory rate range?
The normal adult resting respiratory rate is typically between 12 and 20 breaths per minute.
What is the normal systolic blood pressure range for an adult?
A normal adult systolic blood pressure is generally between 90 mmHg and 140 mmHg.
When assessing a patient's skin, what three characteristics should you evaluate?
You should evaluate the skin's color, temperature, and condition (e.g., moist, dry, clammy).
What does 'PERRL' stand for when assessing a patient's pupils?
Pupils Equal, Round, Reactive to Light. It indicates normal pupillary response.
What is the purpose of assessing capillary refill time, and what is a normal finding?
It assesses peripheral perfusion; normal capillary refill time is less than 2 seconds.
What does the mnemonic 'OPQRST' stand for in pain assessment?
Onset, Provocation/Palliation, Quality, Radiation, Severity, Time. It helps gather details about a patient's pain.
What does 'AMPLE' stand for when taking a patient's history?
Allergies, Medications, Past medical history, Last oral intake, Events leading to injury/illness.
Why is a 'chief complaint' important in patient assessment?
The chief complaint is the main reason the patient called for help and guides the EMT's initial focus and assessment.
How often should an EMT reassess a stable patient versus an unstable patient?
Reassess stable patients every 15 minutes and unstable patients every 5 minutes.
Why are baseline vital signs crucial in patient assessment?
Baseline vital signs provide a starting point for comparison, allowing EMTs to identify trends and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
What are the first three steps an EMT should take during a scene size-up?
Ensure scene safety, determine mechanism of injury/nature of illness, and take BSI precautions.