Basic Life Support Certification (BLS)

Symptoms of hypoglycemia

(may vary from person-to-person) anxiety, fatigue, heart palpitations, hunger, irritability, pale skin, shakiness, sweating, and tingling sensation around the mouth.

What does an AED do and when should it be applied?

An AED restores the natural rhythm of the heartbeat as well as restarting the patient's heart. CPR should be performed if the patient is non-responsive and not breathing and an AED should be applied after performing CPR.

Good Samaritan Law

Any persons who assist those who're injured, ill or in peril are protected by the ____ _________ ___. As long as you're acting voluntary, without expectation of reimbursement or compensation while performing such aid, on site—you'll have legal protection.

Treatment for spinal injury

Call 911. Make sure to keep the patient from moving. Perform CPR, if needed. If there isn't a pulse make sure to perform chest compressions. Do not remove any items off the patient. If the patient is vomiting or is bleeding from the mouth or nose turn the patient on his/her side only if there are 2 responders—making sure to move the patient in accordance with each responders movement.

Treatment of Drug Overdose

Check universal precautions. Check if there's a pulse, if not, perform CPR. Keep the patient calm and reassured of his/her safety. Check for any shock symptoms. For seizures and convulsions apply first-aid. Monitor vital signs. Make sure to document any and all drugs taken and keep the container and/or label.

CAB

Compression, airway, breathing

Signs of a stroke

Facial Droop To check: ask patient to smile Normal: patient's cheeks move equally on both sides Abnormal: patient's face moves unequally on both sides Arm Drift: To check: have patient raise arms at shoulder length for 10 seconds Normal: both arms equally move together (another condition might occur: pronator drift) Abnormal: arms fail to respond equally Speech To check: ask patient a question Normal: patient does not slur and answers correctly Abnormal: patient is mute, using abnormal words and/or slurring

Dressing Open Chest Wounds:

First, activate the Emergency Response System. Check to see if there's more than one open wound (for more than 1 wound determine if dressing will be applied). Remember, dressing should only be applied if there is rapid blood loss. Remove clothing (leave stuck clothing). Cut dressing but make sure it's larger than the wound. Seal the wound to prevent the loss of blood (apply pressure if needed). Never remove objects from the wound.

Dental Avulsion

For lack of skill and required training to re-implant an avulsed tooth it may be beneficial to store the tooth in solution. Storing the tooth in solution prolongs the viability of dental cells. Such solution, which has shown efficacy: Hank's Balanced Salt Solution. Cell viability: 30-120 minutes.

Chest Pain

For patients with Chest Pain the provider may encourage the patient to chew 1 adult or 2 low-does aspirins (if signs suggest the patient is having myocardial infarction and if the patient doesn't have allergies to aspirin). If the provider is unsure or uncomfortable with such administration of aspirin then the patient can be deferred to EMS.

treatment for exertion dehydration

Have patient orally re-hydrate with carbohydrate-electrolyte (CE) drinks. Ingestion of fluids: 5-8% will facilitate hydration. Other drinks: coconut water and 2% milk. Alternatively, if drink aren't available then potable water may be used.

Nosebleed treatment

If the nosebleed results from a more serious injury such as: a broken nose or a head injury, make sure to call 911. If the patient falls unconscious or is non-responsive without a pulse, perform CPR. If the nosebleed occurs to be a serious injury make sure to apply pressure to the nose for roughly ten minutes—make sure to have the patient breathe through his/her mouth. After applying pressure, make sure to clear the patient's nose cavity. If the patient is congested, thoroughly wash the cavity or use a decongestant after the patient has tried blowing his/her nose.

treatment severe exertion dehydration

If the patient is severely dehydrated or is in a life-threatening situation activate the EMS. EMS will be able to provide an Intravenous hydration that consists of essential nutrients.

Treatment for shock

If the patient is unconscious call 911 immediately then perform CPR—if the patient is a child or infant perform CPR for 2 minutes and then call 911. Make sure to lay the patient down with his/her feet 12 inches above the heart. Check for C-A-B's. You may need to put the patient on his/her side to prevent choking. Make sure to check for other injuries.

When to stop CPR

If the patient regains a pulse, if the area becomes unsafe, if cardiac arrest last longer than 30 minutes, if the rescuer(s) is too exhausted or ordered to stop. Or, if these complications arise: Fractures, punctures, lung ruptures or collapses, rib separation, bruises of the heart and/or lungs.

Open Chest Wounds may be ____ ____

Left open (no, thats not a typo) If it is required for dressing and direct pressure to stop the bleeding, than extreme care must be provided to ensure that the dressing doesn't become too saturated with blood, which can inadvertently become occlusive. Dress appropriately and modify the procedure when it is needed.

Airway

Make sure the patient is on a solid/firm surface (on his/her backside). Next, kneel beside the patient's neck/shoulders. Open the patient's Airway by tilting the head back with the palm of 1 hand as the other hand gently lifts the chin. For no longer than 10 seconds, check for life: listen for any sounds, put your cheek beside the patient's mouth to feel for breathing and look for any motions. Tasks can be performed simultaneously.

Bruise Treatment

Make sure to elevate the injured area which will alleviate the pain. Also, apply an ice-pack or cold cloth. If needed, have the patient take a pain-reliever such as: Tylenol to reduce the pain and swelling. If the Bruise appeared on the head or if the bruise lasts longer than 2 weeks consider taking the patient to the hospital.

Bruises

are broken blood vessels that leak under the skin—dark spots caused by a blow, fall, etc...

Punctured wounds

can be very serious. It's very dangerous if the wound gets infected. If the wound has excessive bleeding make sure to call 911. Remember, if the patient falls unconscious or is non-responsive without a pulse make sure to call 911 and perform CPR.

electroshocks

can cause no harm, mild harm or severe harm.

Treatment for hemorrhage:

check for universal precautions. Perform CPR, if necessary. Wrap hemorrhage, if possible. Call 911 or bring the patient to the nearest hospital.

Seizure treatment

check universal precautions, remove any life threatening objects, loosen clothing, and make sure to call 911 and respond with appropriate orders. Make sure to NOT restrain the patient unless the patient is going to be hurt or is going to hurt someone.

Symptoms of drug overdose:

death, unconsciousness, convulsions, delusional behavior, abnormal pupil size, difficulty breathing, nausea, non-reactive pupils, vomiting, sweating, numbness and violent aggressive behavior.

Sprains And Strains

differ in where the injury takes place on the body. Sprains occur in any ligaments, such as: ankles, wrists, etc... Strains occur when a muscle/tendon is torn. Strains can occur in the back (hamstring) or thigh, etc...

Severe bites and stings

difficulty breathing, swelling (lips, throat, etc...), nausea, vomiting, hives, rapid heart beat and faintness and dizziness.

What is a drug overdose?

dose larger than the recommended assumption. There are many reactions that can occur, such as: sleepiness or unconsciousness, excitement with a rapid heart beat, hallucinations, impaired judgment and decision-making skills.

call 911 if one of the following occurs as a result of a head injury:

f the victim has a seizure, slurs while speaking, if the patient's pupils are unequal in size, any inabilities in the usage of body parts or motor skills, any loss of balance (make sure to tell the patient to sit down), confusion, any discoloration in the face, a severe headache or if there's any severe bleeding from the head, nose, ears or face call 911 immediately.

Compression

find the point where the patient's ribs meet (just below both halves) and interlock your fingers with both hands. Make sure you're kneeling beside the patient's shoulders (Do Not Lean on Patient). Once in position, lock your elbows and use your body's weight to compress 2 inches upon the patient's chest. Make sure to let the patient's chest rise after each compression. Compressions on an infant are pressed just below the.

Treatment for hypoglycemia

for symptomatic hypoglycemia provide a rapid clinical relief with oral glucose tablets. If glucose tablets aren't available provide other foods and liquids containing sugars such as: fructose, sucrose, and oligonucleotides. Such foods can effectively reverse mild symptomatic hypoglycemia.

Hemmorrhage

is a loss of blood.

Ventricular Tachycardia

is a rapid heartbeat that begins at the bottom chambers of the heart, named Ventricles. Ventricles are the main heart's main chambers which pump. Ventricular Tachycardia can be very life-threatening because it can lead to Ventricular Fibrillation.

Hypoglycemia

is a syndrome which results from low blood sugar.

black eye

is caused by broken blood vessels (or, bleeding beneath the skin) around the eye. Sometimes, there can be bleeding inside the eye which is called, Hyphema—blood in the front chamber of the eye or in the cornea.

Choking

is caused when an object is blocking the throat or windpipe. Adults often choke by large pieces of food, however, children often swallow small toys or other objects.

Respiratory Arrest

is the cessation of oxygen throughout the body. Failure of the lungs to deliver oxygen can result in death if untreated. A lack of oxygen to the brain will result in a loss of consciousness and immediate treatment is important for the chances of survival. Artificial ventilation treatment is the necessary act for saving respiratory arrest patients. Make sure to call 911 immediately and then, perform CPR.

Cardiac Arrest

is the ineffective contractions of the heart causing a cessation of blood circulation throughout the body. The cessation of circulated blood will result in the patient falling unconscious due to a lack of oxygen. If Cardiac Arrest patients are left untreated brain damage, and even death, is very likely. Immediate response is crucial in saving the life of a Cardiac Arrest patient. CPR should be performed immediately.

Spinal Injury

is very serious. If any suspicion, whatsoever, of a spinal injury do not move the patient. If the patient has had a head injury, back pain, has any numbness or lacks control of limbs, bladder or bowels—suspect a spinal injury.

Hypothermia

is when the body temperature is below 95 F. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than the body can produce energy. Hypothermia often occurs when the body is immersed in cold water. If the patient is left untreated the nervous system will not be able to work properly which will result in organ damage and possibly death.

Ventricular Fibrillation

is when the cardiac muscles quiver rather than contract. Ventricular Fibrillation requires immediate medical response. If the patient receives no attention he/she will fall degenerate with no blood circulation. After 4 minutes serious brain damage can occur and after 8 minutes brain damage is likely to be severe and can result in death.

Treatment for black eye

make sure to apply a cold pack or ice pack to reduce the swelling of the patient's injured eye. If blood is visible, in the eye, seek medical attention at the nearest hospital. If the patient has any vision problems and/or any blood leakage from the eye seek medical attention immediately.

AED for electroshock

make sure to check for safety before attempting any performance on the patient. Make sure the patient isn't near any electrical currents or fuse boxes. CPR is priority 1 for Cardiac arrest patient's, burns, scrapes and other bodily harms aren't considered priority 1. If the patient is unresponsive or pulse less, perform CPR.

treatment for chemical splash in eye

make sure to have the patient run his/her eyes under lukewarm water for at least 20 minutes. Make sure contact lenses are removed. If the patient undergoes persistent pain make sure to call 911 or bring the patient to the nearest hospital. Make sure to have the patient take the bottle or the name of the chemical to the hospital (for medical determinations).

Treatment for poisoning:

make sure to take the patient outside for fresh air. Have the patient flush out his/her mouth. Make sure to read the label of the chemicals that were induced and read the instructions for poisoning. Flush the patient's eyes and/or have the skin cleansed. If the patient isn't breathing perform CPR. If the patient needs medical attention make sure to give the container, label and/or pills to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel.

AED for trauma

make sure to use the jaw-thrust maneuver when performing the airway task. Make sure to check for any injuries, such as: head, spinal and neck, to maintain patient's protection.

Classes of hemorrhage

1. A loss of 15% blood volume. No change in vital signs. 2. A loss of 15-30% blood volume. Blood transfusion isn't usually necessary, but may need Saline solution (salt water). Rapid heart beat. 3. A loss of 30-40% blood volume. Blood transfusions are necessary. Drop in blood pressure with rapid heart beat. 4. A loss of 40% blood volume. Resuscitation is necessary for death prevention.

Amputation treatment

1. Always practice universal precautions. 2. Call 911 immediately. 3. If the patient isn't breathing perform CPR. 4. Apply direct pressure. Make sure to raise the injured area. Use a tourniquet or tight bandage, if needed. 5. If possible clean the amputated part and make sure to keep it with the patient. 6. Wrap the part in a cloth and put it in a plastic sealed bag inside of ice cold water. 7. If the amputated part is below the heart make sure to raise the legs 12 inches above the heart. 8. Watch for any signs of shock.

Call EMS immediately if a burn is:

1. Blistering or broken skin 2. Difficulty breathing 3. Face, neck, hands, or genitals 4. A larger surface area, such as trunk or extremities 5. Or, other causes of concern

Third degree burn treatment

1. Call 911 and/or rush the patient to the nearest hospital. 2. Perform CPR, if needed. 3. Do not remove the patient's clothing. 4. Raise the burn injury above the patient's heart (increase blood pressure). 5. Cover the injuries in a cool moist cloth (material).

Treatment for electroshock

1. Call 911 if the patient undergone any serious injuries. 2. Perform CPR, if needed. 3. Turn off power source. 4. Make sure the patient is free of all electrical currents before touching the patient. 5. Move patient away from electrical source (use non-conductive materials if possible. 6. If needed, raise the patient's legs above his/her heart to increase blood pressure.

what goes In a first aid kit?

1. Gauze pads (at least 4 x 4 inches). 2. Two large gauze pads (at least 8 x 10 inches). 3. Box adhesive bandages (band-aids). 4. One package gauze roller bandage at least 2 inches wide. 5. Two triangular bandages. 6. Wound cleaning agent such as sealed moistened towelettes. 7. Scissors. 8. At least one blanket. 9. Tweezers. 10. Adhesive tape. 11. Latex gloves. 12. Resuscitation equipment such as resuscitation bag, airway, or pocket mask. 13. Two elastic wraps. 14. Splint. 15. Directions for requesting emergency assistance.

1st degree burn treatment

1. Keep the burn cool (wrap the burn with a cool cloth or soak the burn in a bath. 2. Apply ointment such as: Aloe Vera. 3. Wrap the burn with gauze (keep from infection). Replace, once a day. 4. Administer a pain reliever such as: Advil. 2nd-degree Burns refer to the burn breaching the 1st layer of skin and reaching the 2nd. Usually there will be blisters accompanied by severe pain and swelling.

Treatment for cuts and scrapes.

1. Stop the bleeding. 2. Apply thorough pressure (seek EMS attention if bleeding is excessive or cut is deeper than 1/4 inch). 3. Thoroughly clean the cut/scrape with water and soap (stay clear of the injury itself). 4. Apply an ointment such as: Neosporin. 5. Provide a pain reliever such as: Advil. 6. (Re) wrap the injury to keep it from infection. 7. Seek medical attention at the nearest hospital if the injury worsens. 8. Have the patient get a Tetanus or Tetanus Booster shot.

Punctured wound treatment

1. Stop the bleeding. 2. Apply thorough pressure (seek EMS attention if bleeding is excessive. 3. Clean the wound thoroughly with water and soap (stay clear of the wound itself). 4. Apply an ointment such as: Neosporin. 5. Provide a pain reliever such as: Advil. 6. (Re) wrap the wound to keep the wound from infection. 7. Seek medical attention at the nearest hospital if the wound worsens. 8. Have the patient get a Tetanus or Tetanus Booster shot.

call 911 if one of the following occurs as a result of a concussion

1. Vomited more than once 2. Unequal pupils 3. Having/had a seizure 4. Unable to balance 5. Slurred speech 6. Neck and/or spinal pain 7. Very drowsy 8. Has Weakness on one side of the body

what number do you call in an emergency?

911

what is a stroke?

A Stroke occurs when there is a ruptured/blocked blood vessel in the brain. When the brain has a cessation of oxygen it begins deteriorating. If the patient falls unconscious or is unresponsive, call 911 and perform CPR immediately. It is recommended for providers to use a stroke assessment system. A System such as Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS) is a simple tool when assessing a stroke patient. CPSS Stroke Scale:

Shock

A ______ can occur for many reasons. Some reasons are: poisoning, burns, blood loss, heatstroke, trauma and any other serious medical accident. When a patient is Shocked it can lead to a loss of oxygenated blood to vital organs which, if untreated, can lead to organ damage or possibly death. Signs of Shock: cool and clammy skin, unconsciousness or poor responsiveness, dilated pupils and nausea.

Treatment for concussion

Make sure to have the patient stop the activity. Allow the patient to rest. To prevent swelling and worsening of injury apply ice wrapped in a washcloth. Treat pain with over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Note: it may make bruising worse. Monitor Symptoms and if any symptom is on the list above make sure to call 911 or EMS immediately. Perform CPR if needed.

AED for drowning

Make sure to remove the patient's wet clothing and replace it with something warm and dry. Make sure to perform rescue breaths if the patient is unconscious. If rescue breaths aren't accessible make sure to perform chest compressions.

Hypothermia treatment

Make sure to remove the patient's wet clothing and replace it with something warm and dry. Make sure to perform rescue breaths if the patient is unconscious. If rescue breaths aren't accessible make sure to perform chest compressions. If possible, give the patient a warm beverage and a warm, dry compress (hot water in a bag to hold or cover the patient with). Do NOT apply direct heat.

Fracture Treatment

Make sure to stop the bleeding by applying pressure to the Fracture and wrapping it if necessary. Apply a splint to the Fractured area. If the patient isn't moving do not try and move the patient yourself. If needed, apply a cold cloth or ice to the fracture.

How to use an AED

Turn on the AED - Usually there will be an "On" button but in some cases there might be a lever. Remove all clothing from the patient's arms, chest and abdomen—whether male or female. Attach pads to bare skin on the chest. Make sure to use the appropriate system for the child or adult (an AED should not be used on an infant). Place the left pad under the left armpit—to the left of the nipple and right pad under the collarbone on the right side of the chest. Make sure to place the pads at least one inch away from any implanted devices. Next, connect the wiring. Analyze the patient's heart rhythm. Make sure you DO NOT touch the patient during the defibrillator process. If the AED does not begin analyzing automatically make sure to press the analyze button. If a shock is advised then push the shock button.

seizure

When a _______ occurs these are signs to look for: dizziness or faintness, uncontrolled bowel movement, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness or unresponsiveness, arching of the back, clenching of things—such as teeth. If a patient is ever unconscious or unresponsive make sure to perform CPR and to call 911. Some causes of Seizures are: head injuries, fevers, brain damage, poisoning, cessation of oxygen to the brain and diabetes.

Breathing

While still performing the Airway technique pinch the patient's nose shut. With a complete seal over the patient's mouth, with your mouth, breathe into the patient until you see the chest inflate. If the chest does not inflate repeat the Airway technique. When performing the breathing technique make sure to give 2 breaths for 1 second each.

CPR for Infants (Age Less Than 1 Year, Excluding Newborns)

Witnessed Collapse: call 911 or have someone call • Un-Witnessed Collapse: perform CPR (for 2 minutes), call 911 or have someone call • Chest compressions - 100-120/min • Perform CPR - Circulate, Airway, Breathing (C-A-B's) • Compressions at about 1½ inches (4 cm) - 1/3 AP diameter of chest • 30:2 compressions over breaths (seal infant's mouth and nose) - 2 Rescuers 15:2 • 2 Rescuers: 2 thumbs compression • Use AED as soon as it's available

treatment for foreign objects in eye

make sure your hands are clean. Make sure to pull the lower lid down while having the patient look up and vice versa in the opposite direction. Clean the patient's eye with saline solution or water. Make sure to call 911 or take the patient to the nearest hospital if: the object is in-removable, if it's embedded in the eyeball, if there 's any abnormalities or persistent pain once the object is removed.

Treatment for Sprains and Strains

rest the Sprained/Strained area in a sling, crutch or flint. Make sure to place ice over the area to prevent swelling and limit application to 20 minutes unless the patient is irritated - limit 10 minutes. Make sure to apply a bandage to the joint or limb or use a brace, if possible. Make sure to raise the patient's Sprained/Strained part 12 inches above the heart.

Treatment for choking infants

rest the patient on your forearm, while also resting your forearm, on your thigh. Perform 5 thumps with the heel of your hand upon the infants back. If the patient is still choking turn the infant over, face-up, and with 2 fingers upon the breastplate perform 5 chest compressions. Repeat the process until the object is dis-lodged.

Mild bites and stings

use universal precautions, remove the stinger, apply a cold pack, give the patient a pain reliever, and use ointment, such as: Benadryl, or any antihistamine, if necessary. Mild allergic reactions are: diarrhea, swelling, cramps, nausea and vomiting.

exertion dehydration

usually dehydration occurs with vigorous exercise in hot and humid environments. Dehydration occurs when you lose fluids more than you take in. If loss fluids aren't replaced dehydration will occur.

Nosebleeds

very common. Whether it's a hot day or a minor fall nosebleeds are not a serious medical problem.

Signs of poisoning

vomiting, difficulty breathing, sleepiness, confusion, burns (redness) around the mouth, chemical odors out from the mouth and burns on clothing or skin. For poison ingestion do not administer anything by mouth unless advised to do so by the PCC or EMS personnel.

Choking children and adults

when performing the Heimlich maneuver make sure to stand behind the person. Lean the person slightly forward and wrap your arms around his/her waist. Next, press hard with a closed fist into the abdomen than grab your fist with your other hand. Perform 5 quick thrusts. If the object still hasn't cleared the patient's throat/windpipe, repeat the cycle.

Unconscious choking person

when performing the Heimlich maneuver on an unconscious person lay the patient on his/her back. Make sure to clear the patient's airway, if needed, finger swipe the patient's mouth to pick out any foreign objects. If you can't see or can't take the object out of the patient's mouth, make sure to perform CPR. Chest compressions will most likely clear the patient's airway.

Heart Attack

when the heart isn't receiving oxygenated blood. When a patient isn't receiving oxygenated blood the heart begins to die. The patient might undergo pain in the center of the chest, sweating, nausea, dizziness and faintness. Also, pain throughout the body in areas such as: neck, shoulders, jaw, teeth and arms.

CPR for Adults & Adolescents

• Check for life • Before performing CPR call 911 or have someone else call • Chest compressions - 100-120/min • 2 Rescuers: Perform tasks simultaneously • Perform CPR - Circulate, Airway, Breathing (C-A-B's) • Compressions at about 2 inches (5 cm) • 1 or 2 rescuers - 30:2 compressions over breaths • Use AED as soon as it's available

Main points on when to stop CPR

• When you're too exhausted to continue • If the patient's ribs are broken, lung collapses, etc... • If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is accessible • If Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrives

CPR for Children (Age 1 Year to Puberty)

• Witnessed Collapse: call 911 or have someone call • Un-Witnessed Collapse: perform CPR (for 2 minutes), call 911 or have someone call • Chest compressions - 100-120/min • Perform CPR - Circulate, Airway, Breathing (C-A-B's) • Compressions at about 2 inches (5 cm) - 1/3 AP diameter of chest • 30:2 compressions over breaths - 2 Rescuers 15:2 • 2 Rescuers: Perform tasks simultaneously • Use AED as soon as it's available