Chapter 16: Cardiovascular Emergencies

During which of the components of the patient assessment process are vital signs first taken?

• Primary assessment

• Reassessment

• Secondary assessment

• Scene size-up

You have just positioned a patient complaining of chest pain on the EMS stretcher. The patient will MOST likely prefer which position for transport?

• Tri-pod

• Semi-fowlers

• Lying supine

• Trendelenburg

Which of the following BEST describes angina pectoris?

• When chest pain is relieved with nitroglycerin or rest

• When cerebral tissue perfusion is temporarily decreased

• When coronary vasospasms decrease blood supply to the heart

• Chest pain that results when the hearts demand for oxygen exceeds the blood supply available

A 53yo male is experiencing a suspected heart attack. Which price of equipment is LEAST likely to be used with this patient during care?

• Nasal cannula

• EMS stretcher

• Non-rebreather mask

• Automated external defibrillator

Why are providers discouraged form checking a carotid pulse immediately after a shock to confirm pulselessness?

• It is inaccurate or unreliable

• Doing so reduces circulation to the brain

• It causes an unnecessary delay and interruption of CPR

• The heart requires a quick series of 3 shocks before re-starting

What one error will most likely lead to failed resuscitation attempt with a patient in cardiac arrest?

• Delayed ALS

• Improper CPR

• Crowded scenes

• Omitted oxygen

Choose the MOST valuable reason for having paramedics assist you with a cardiac call

• They will always have more experience than an EMT responder

• ALS May be able to provide some procedures to prevent cardiac arrest

• Paramedics are the only level of care that can initiate an intravenous line

• It is the first link in the chain of survival by the American Heart Association

Which of the following is the latest sign of hypoperfusion to become apparent?

• Diaphoresis

• Rapid pulse

• Altered mental status

• Decrease blood pressure

While awaiting ALS transport, you begin a reassessment (ongoing assessment) of your patient. Which of the following is specifically included in the ongoing assessment?

• Calling for additional help

• Asking SAMPLE history questions

• Checking any treatments or interventions

• Assessing the nature of illness/ mechanism of injury