Fisdap Unit Exam: Medical Emergencies

other GI poisons {Ans: copper, arsenic, zinc, cadmium, scrombrotoxin (fish toxin), clitocybe or inocybe mushrooms. older patients are very susceptible to poisonings due to memory loss, confusion, etc. lung damage can be severe as body ages, watch for increased reaction or irritation at the skin site. avoid blaming adults for accidental poisonings in children}alcohol {Ans: can damage the liver 1/10 deaths in US adults is caused by excessive drinking binge use has increased more than 17% since 2005. CNS depressant -- a sedative and hypnotic dulls awareness, slows reflexes, reduces reaction time; may cause aggressive and inappropriate behavior, lack of coordination. a person who appears intoxicated may have other medical problems. Look for signs of head trauma, mental illness, toxic reactions, uncontrolled diabetes severe acute alcohol consumption may cause hypoglycemia assume all intoxicated patients have a drug overdose and transport immediately with ABC support. alcohol increases the effects of other drugs. OTC drugs (antihistamines, diet meds) can cause serious complications when taken with alcohol. beware of DTs}stabilize suspected spinal injury in the water {Ans: turn the patient supine with two rescuers, rotate all together. restore airway and ventilate. float buoyant backboard under patient secure trunk and head