Term
|
Definition
a system for telephone access to report
emergencies. A dispatcher takes the information
and alerts EMS or the fire or police departments as needed. Enhanced 911 has the additional capability of automatically identifying the caller's
phone number and location. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| leaving a patient after care has been initiated and before the patient has been transferred to someone with equal or greater medical training. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| four divisions of the abdomen used to pinpoint the location of a pain or injury: the right upper quadrant (RUQ), the left upper quadrant (LUQ), the right lower quadrant (RLQ), and the left lower quadrant (LLQ). |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| airway, breathing, and circulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| spontaneous (miscarriage) or induced termination of pregnancy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall; a cause of prebirth bleeding. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| poisons that are taken into the body through unbroken skin. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the pelvic socket into which the ball at the proximal end of the femur fits
to form the hip joint. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the joint where the acromion and the clavicle meet. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| the highest portion of the shoulder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a substance that adsorbs many poisons and
prevents them from being absorbed by the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| application of an external heat source to rewarm the body of a hypothermic patient. |
|
|
Term
| acute coronary syndrome (ACS) |
|
Definition
| a blanket term used to represent any symptoms related to lack of oxygen (ischemia) in the heart muscle. Also called cardiac compromise. |
|
|
Term
| acute myocardial infarction (AMI) |
|
Definition
| the condition in which a portion of the myocardium dies as a result of oxygen starvation; often called a heart attack by laypersons. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life between 13 to 18. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| a DNR order; instructions written in advance of the event. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the cellular process in which oxygen is
used to metabolize glucose. Energy is produced in an efficient manner with minimal waste products. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the placenta, membranes of the amniotic sac, part of the umbilical cord, and some tissues from the
lining of the uterus that is delivered after the
birth of the baby. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| irregular, gasping breaths that precede apnea and death. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an air or gas bubble in the bloodstream. The plural is air emboli. The more accurate term is arterial gas embolism (AGE). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the passageway by which air enters or leaves the body. The structures of the airway are the nose,
mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and
lungs. See also patent airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| something that causes an allergic reaction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an exaggerated immune response. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the amount of air that reaches the alveoli. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the microscopic sacs of the lungs
where gas exchange with the bloodstream takes
place. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the "bag of waters" that surrounds
the developing fetus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the surgical removal or traumatic severing of a body part, usually an
extremity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the cellular process in which glucose is metabolized into energy without
oxygen. Energy is produced in an inefficient
manner with many waste products. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction in which the blood vessels dilate, causing a drop in blood pressure, and the tissues lining the respiratory system swell, interfering with the airway. Also called anaphylactic shock. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the standard reference position for the body in the study of anatomy. In this position, the body is
standing erect, facing the observer, with arms
down at the sides and the palms of the hands
forward. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of body structure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| lack of a normal number of red blood cells in the circulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the dilation, or ballooning, of a
weakened section of the wall of an artery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
pain in the chest, occurring when blood supply to the heart is reduced and a portion of the heart muscle is not
receiving enough oxygen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| fracture in which the broken bone segments are at an angle to each other. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the front of the body or body part. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a substance that will neutralize the poison or its effects. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the largest artery in the body. It
transports blood from the left ventricle to begin
systemic circulation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a small tube located near the junction of the small and large intestines in the right lower quadrant of
the abdomen, the function of which is not well
understood. Its inflammation, called appendicitis,
is a common cause of abdominal pain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
bleeding from an artery, which is characterized by bright red blood that is rapid, profuse, and difficult
to control. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the smallest kind of artery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| forcing air or oxygen into the lungs when a patient has stopped breathing or has inadequate breathing. Also called positive pressure ventilation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a medication used to reduce the clotting ability of blood to prevent and treat clots associated with
myocardial infarction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| placing a person in fear of bodily harm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a condition in which the heart has
ceased generating electrical impulses. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the two upper chambers of the heart. There is a right atrium (which receives
unoxygenated blood returning from the body) and
a left atrium (which receives oxygenated blood returning from the lungs). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a sensation experienced by a seizure patient right before the seizure, which might be a smell,
sound, or general feeling. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| listening. A stethoscope is used to auscultate for characteristic sounds. |
|
|
Term
| autism spectrum disorders (ASD) |
|
Definition
developmental disorders that affect, among other things, the ability to communicate, report medical
conditions, self-regulate behaviors, and interact
with others. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a syringe preloaded with medication that has a spring-loaded device that pushes the needle through the skin when the tip of the device is pressed firmly against the body. |
|
|
Term
automatic implanted cardiac defibrillator
(AICD) |
|
Definition
| a device implanted under the skin of the chest to detect any life-threatening dysrhythmia and deliver a shock to defibrillate the heart. |
|
|
Term
| automatic transport ventilator (ATV) |
|
Definition
a device that provides positive pressure ventilations. It includes settings designed to adjust
ventilation rate and volume, is portable, and is easily carried on an ambulance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the ability of the heart to generate and conduct electrical impulses on its own. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary motor functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a memory aid for classifying a patient's level of responsiveness or mental status. The letters stand for alert, verbal response, painful response, unresponsive. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the tearing away or tearing off of
a piece or flap of skin or other soft tissue. This term also may be used for an eye pulled from its socket or a tooth dislodged from its socket. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a handheld device with a face mask and selfrefilling bag that can be squeezed to provide artificial ventilations to a patient. It can deliver air from the atmosphere or oxygen from a
supplemental oxygen supply system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any material used to hold a dressing in place. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| having to do with patients who are significantly overweight or obese. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the branch of medicine that deals with the causes of obesity, as well as its prevention and treatment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a two-way radio at a fixed site such as a hospital or dispatch center. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| causing bodily harm to or restraining a person. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the manner in which a person acts. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
when a patient's behavior is not typical for the situation; when the patient's behavior is unacceptable or intolerable to the patient, his
family, or the community; or when the patient may harm himself or others. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the round sac-like organ of the renal system used as a reservoir for urine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the pressure caused by blood exerting force against the walls of blood vessels. Usually arterial blood pressure (the pressure in an artery) is
measured. There are two parts: diastolic blood pressure and systolic blood pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| machine that automatically inflates a blood pressure cuff and measures blood pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| injury caused by a blow that does not penetrate the skin or other body tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the proper use of the body to facilitate lifting and moving and prevent injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the sense that needs to be met. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| hard but flexible living structures that provide support for the body and protection for the vital organs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
artery of the upper arm; the site of
the pulse checked during infant CPR. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pulse felt in the upper arm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a slow pulse; any pulse
rate below 60 beats per minute. |
|
|
Term
| Braxton-Hicks contractions |
|
Definition
| irregular prelabor contractions of the uterus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the two large sets of branches that
come off the trachea and enter the lungs. There are right and left bronchi. Singular bronchus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the contraction of smooth muscle that lines the bronchial passages that results in a decreased internal diameter of the airway and increased resistance to air flow. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a thin-walled, microscopic blood vessel where the oxygen/carbon dioxide and nutrient/waste exchange with the body's cells takes place. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| bleeding from capillaries, which is characterized by a slow, oozing flow of blood. |
|
|
Term
| cardiac conduction system |
|
Definition
| a system of specialized muscle tissues that conducts electrical impulses that stimulate the heart to beat |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| specialized involuntary muscle found only in the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the amount of blood ejected from the heart in 1 minute (heart rate A— stroke volume). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
shock, or lack of perfusion, brought on not by blood loss, but by inadequate pumping action of the heart. It is often the result of a heart attack or
congestive heart failure. |
|
|
Term
| cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) |
|
Definition
| actions taken to revive a person by keeping the person's heart and lungs working. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the system made up of the heart (cardio) and the blood vessels (vascular); the circulatory system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the large neck arteries, one on each side of the neck, that carry blood from the heart to the head. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pulse felt along the large carotid artery on either side of the neck. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| tough tissue that covers the joint ends of bones and helps to form certain body parts such as the ear. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a phone that transmits through the air instead of over wires so that the phone can be transported and used over a wide area. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide
between cells and circulating blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a catheter surgically inserted for long-term delivery of medications or fluids into the central
circulation. |
|
|
Term
| central nervous system (CNS) |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the carotid and femoral pulses, which can be felt in the central part of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the baby appears head first during birth. This is the normal presentation. |
|
|
Term
| cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) |
|
Definition
| the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the neck of the uterus at the entrance
to the birth canal. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
chemical sensors in the brain and blood vessels that identify changing levels of
oxygen and carbon dioxide. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
in emergency medicine, the reason EMS was
called, usually in the patient's own words. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an injury to an extremity with no associated opening in the skin. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an internal injury with no open pathway from the outside. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
area where the Incident Command post and
support functions are located. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a word root with an added vowel that can be joined with other words, roots, or suffixes to form a new word. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the first on the scene to establish order and initiate the Incident Command System. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a fracture in which bones are broken in several places. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
injury caused when tissues such as blood vessels and nerves are constricted within a space as from
swelling or from a tight dressing or cast. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the patient is developing shock but the body is still able to maintain perfusion. See shock. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a word formed from two or more whole words. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
mild closed head injury without detectable damage to the brain. Complete recovery is usually
expected. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the transfer of heat from one material to another through direct contact. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the obligation not to reveal information obtained about a patient except to other health care
professionals involved in the patient's care, or
under subpoena, or in a court of law, or when the
patient has signed a release of confidentiality. |
|
|
Term
| congestive heart failure (CHF) |
|
Definition
the failure of the heart to pump efficiently, leading to excessive blood or fluids in the lungs, the body,
or both. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| permission from the patient for care or other action by the EMT. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
contact with or presence of a material
(contaminant) that is present where it does not
belong and that is somehow harmful to persons,
animals, or the environment. |
|
|
Term
continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
(CAPD) |
|
Definition
a gravity exchange process for peritoneal dialysis in which a bag of dialysis fluid is raised above the
level of an abdominal catheter to fill the abdominal cavity and then lowered below the level of the abdominal catheter to drain the fluid out. |
|
|
Term
continuous cycler-assisted peritoneal dialysis
(CCPD) |
|
Definition
| a mechanical process for peritoneal dialysis in which a machine fills and empties the abdominal cavity of dialysis solution. |
|
|
Term
| continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) |
|
Definition
| a form of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) consisting of a mask and a means of blowing oxygen or air into the mask to prevent airway collapse or to help alleviate difficulty breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
specific signs or circumstances under which it is not appropriate, and may be harmful, to administer a drug to a
patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a bruise. In brain injuries, a bruised brain caused when the force of a blow to the head is great enough to rupture blood vessels. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| carrying away of heat by currents of air, water, or other gases or liquids. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
blood vessels that supply the
muscle of the heart (myocardium). |
|
|
Term
| coronary artery disease (CAD) |
|
Definition
| diseases that affect the arteries of the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bony structure making up the forehead, top, back, and upper sides of the skull. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the grating sound or feeling
of broken bones rubbing together. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a grating sensation or sound made
when fractured bone ends rub together. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the ring-shaped structure that forms
the lower portion of the larynx. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| pressure applied to the cricoid ring to minimize air entry into the esophagus during positive pressure ventilation. Also called Sellick maneuver. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the location where a crime has been committed or any place that evidence relating to a crime may be found. |
|
|
Term
| critical incident stress management (CISM) |
|
Definition
| a comprehensive system that includes education and resources to both prevent stress and to deal with stress appropriately when it occurs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an analytical process that can help someone think through a problem in an organized and efficient manner. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when part of the baby is visible through the vaginal opening. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an injury caused when force is transmitted from the body's exterior to its internal structures. Bones
can be broken; muscles, nerves, and tissues damaged; and internal organs ruptured, causing internal bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the area around the wreckage of a vehicle collision or other incident within which special safety precautions should be taken. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| air that occupies the space between the mouth and alveoli but that does not actually reach the area of gas exchange. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the body can no longer compensate for low blood volume or lack of perfusion. Late signs such as decreasing blood pressure become evident. See shock. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a condition resulting from nitrogen trapped in the body's tissues, caused by coming up too quickly from a deep, prolonged dive. A symptom of
decompression sickness is "the bends," or deep pain in the muscles and joints. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a chemical and/or physical process that reduces or prevents the spread of contamination from persons or equipment; the removal of hazardous substances from employees and their equipment to the extent necessary to preclude foreseeable health effects. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an abnormally low amount of
water in the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a severe reaction that can be part of alcohol withdrawal, characterized by sweating, trembling, anxiety, and
hallucinations. Severe alcohol withdrawal with the DTs can lead to death if untreated. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an area of the skin that is
innervated by a single spinal nerve. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the inner (second) layer of skin, rich in blood vessels and nerves, found beneath the epidermis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an EMT or other person authorized by a Medical Director to give medications and provide emergency care. The transfer of such authorization to a designated agent is an extension of the Medical Director's license to practice medicine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an assessment of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, and posterior of the body to detect
signs and symptoms of injury. It differs from the rapid trauma assessment only in that it also includes examination of the face, ears, eyes, nose, and mouth during the examination of the head. It may be done
less rapidly, and it may be done en route to the hospital after earlier on-scene assessments and interventions are completed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
also called "sugar diabetes" or just "diabetes," the condition brought
about by decreased insulin production or the inability of the body cells to use insulin properly. The person with this condition is a diabetic. |
|
|
Term
| diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) |
|
Definition
| a condition that occurs as the result of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), characterized by dehydration, altered mental status, and shock. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a description or label for a patient's condition that assists a clinician in further evaluation and treatment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the process by which toxins and excess fluid are removed from the body by a medical system independent of the kidneys. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the muscular structure that divides
the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. A major muscle of respiration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the pressure remaining in the
arteries when the left ventricle of the heart is relaxed and refilling. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a list of potential diagnoses compiled early in the assessment of the patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a process by which molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| system by which food travels through the body and is digested, or broken down into absorbable forms. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| thinning down or weakening by mixing with something else. Ingested poisons are sometimes diluted by drinking water or milk. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a method of transferring a patient from bed to stretcher, during which two or more rescuers curl the patient to their chests, then reverse the process to lower the patient to the stretcher. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a method of lifting and carrying a patient from ground level to a stretcher in which two or more
rescuers kneel, curl the patient to their chests, stand, then reverse the process to lower the patient to the stretcher. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a physical, emotional, behavioral, or cognitive condition that interferes with a person's ability to carry out everyday tasks, such as working or
caring for oneself. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a predefined set of instructions for a community's emergency responders. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the disruption or "coming apart” of a joint. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| farther away from the torso. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a condition of being stretched,
inflated, or larger than normal. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| (DNR) a legal document, usually signed by the patient and his physician, which states that the patient has a terminal illness and does not wish to prolong life through resuscitative efforts. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| terrorism directed against the government or population without foreign direction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| referring to the back of the body or the back of the hand or foot. A synonym for posterior. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| artery supplying the foot, lateral to the large tendon of the big toe. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| depressants, such as barbiturates, that depress the central nervous system, which are often used to bring on a more relaxed state of mind. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a method of transferring a patient from bed to stretcher by grasping and pulling the loosened bottom sheet of the bed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any material (preferably sterile) used to cover a wound that will help control bleeding and prevent additional contamination. |
|
|
Term
| drop report (or transfer report) |
|
Definition
| an abbreviated form of the PCR that an EMS crew can leave at the hospital when there is not enough time to complete the PCR before leaving. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the process of experiencing respiratory
impairment from submersion/immersion in liquid, which may result in death, morbidity (illness or other adverse effects), or no morbidity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an obligation to provide care to a patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
shortness of breath; labored or
difficult breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a disturbance in heart rate and
rhythm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 19 to 40 years. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a severe complication of pregnancy that produces seizures and coma. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
when implantation of the fertilized
egg is not in the body of the uterus, occurring
instead in the fallopian tube (oviduct), cervix, or
abdominopelvic cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
swelling associated with the movement of water into the interstitial space
causing a buildup of fluid in the tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a substance that, when dissolved in water, separates into charged particles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
blockage of a vessel by a clot or
foreign material brought to the site by the blood current. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the baby from fertilization to 8 weeks
of development. |
|
|
Term
| EMS diagnosis/EMT diagnosis |
|
Definition
a description or label for a patient's condition, based on the patient's history, physical exam, and vital signs, that assists the EMT in further
evaluation and treatment. An EMS diagnosis is often less specific than a traditional medical diagnosis. |
|
|
Term
| end-stage renal disease (ESRD) |
|
Definition
irreversible renal failure to the extent that the kidneys can no longer provide adequate filtration
and fluid balance to sustain life; survival with ESRD usually requires dialysis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
system of glands that produce chemicals called hormones that help to regulate
many body activities and functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
referring to a route of medication
administration that uses the gastrointestinal tract, such as swallowing a pill. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the outer layer of the skin. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a leaf-shaped structure that prevents food and foreign matter from entering
the trachea. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a medical condition that causes
seizures. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a hormone produced by the body. As a medication, it constricts blood vessels
and dilates respiratory passages and is used to relieve severe allergic reactions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| regarding a social system or social or professional expectations for applying principles of right and wrong. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the change from liquid to gas. When the body perspires or gets wet, evaporation of the perspiration or other liquid into the air has a cooling effect on the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
description of medical techniques or practices that are supported by scientific evidence of their safety
and efficacy, rather than merely on supposition and tradition. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an intestine or other internal organ protruding through a wound in the abdomen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| one cycle of filling and draining the peritoneal cavity in peritoneal dialysis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
bizarre and/or aggressive behavior, shouting, paranoia, panic, violence toward others, insensitivity to pain, unexpected physical strength,
and hyperthermia, usually associated with cocaine or amphetamine use. Also called agitated delirium. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a passive process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphragm relax, causing the chest cavity to decrease in size and air to flow out of the lungs. Also called
expiration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the dose or concentration of an agent multiplied by the time, or duration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
consent given by adults who are of legal age and mentally competent to make a rational decision in
regard to their medical well-being. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the portions of the skeleton that
include the clavicles, scapulae, arms, wrists, and hands (upper extremities) and the pelvis, thighs, legs, ankles, and feet (lower extremities). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a method of lifting and carrying a patient during which one rescuer slips hands under the patient's armpits and grasps the wrists, while another
rescuer grasps the patient's knees. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the narrow tube that connects the
ovary to the uterus. Also called the oviduct. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a tube used to provide delivery of nutrients to the stomach. A nasogastric feeding tube is inserted through the nose and into the stomach; a gastric
feeding tube is surgically implanted through the abdominal wall and into the stomach. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the major artery supplying the leg. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the large bone of the thigh. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the baby from 8 weeks of development
to birth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the lateral and smaller bone of the
lower leg. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| fraction of inspired oxygen; the concentration of oxygen in the air we breathe. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| fracture of two or more adjacent ribs in two or more places that allows for free movement of the fractured segment. |
|
|
Term
flow-restricted, oxygen-powered ventilation
device (FROPVD) |
|
Definition
a device that uses oxygen under pressure to deliver artificial ventilations. Its trigger is placed so
that the rescuer can operate it while still using both hands to maintain a seal on the face mask. It has automatic flow restriction to prevent
over-delivery of oxygen to the patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a valve that indicates the flow of oxygen in liters per minute. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a soft spot on an infant's anterior
scalp formed by the joining of not yet fused bones
of the skull. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes from the brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| vomiting or retching that results when something is placed in the back of the pharynx. This is tied to the swallow reflex. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a sac on the underside of the liver that stores bile produced by the liver. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
impression of the patient's condition that is formed on first approaching the patient, based on the patient's environment, chief complaint, and
appearance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a seizure that affects both sides of the brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a form of sugar, the body's basic
source of energy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a series of laws, varying in each state, designed to provide limited legal protection for citizens and
some health care personnel when they are
administering emergency care. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
mind-affecting or mindaltering
drugs that act on the central nervous
system to produce excitement and distortion of perceptions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any substance or material in a form which poses an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce. |
|
|
Term
| hazardous material incident |
|
Definition
| the release of a harmful substance into the environment. |
|
|
Term
| head-tilt chin-lift maneuver |
|
Definition
a means of correcting blockage of the airway by the tongue by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. Used when no trauma, or injury, is
suspected. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a swelling caused by the collection of blood under the skin or in damaged
tissues as a result of an injured or broken blood vessel. In a head injury, a collection of blood within the skull or brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| bleeding, especially severe bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| shock resulting from blood loss. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| substances applied as powders, dressings, gauze, or bandages to open wounds to stop bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| pushing of a portion of the brain through the foramen magnum as a result of increased intracranial pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act, a federal law protecting the privacy of patient-specific health care information
and providing the patient with control over how
this information is used and distributed. |
|
|
Term
| history of the present illness (HPI) |
|
Definition
| information gathered regarding the symptoms and nature of the patient's current concern. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| red, itchy, possibly raised blotches on the skin that often result from allergic reactions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| area immediately surrounding a hazmat incident; extends far enough to prevent adverse effects outside the zone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bone of the upper arm, between the shoulder and the elbow. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device connected to the flowmeter to add moisture to the dry oxygen coming from an oxygen cylinder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pressure within a blood vessel that tends to push water out of the vessel. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an exaggerated response by the immune system to a particular substance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an increase in body temperature above normal, which is a life-threatening condition in its extreme. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
inability of the body to adequately circulate blood to the body's cells to
supply them with oxygen and nutrients. Also called shock. See also perfusion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
generalized cooling that reduces body temperature below normal, which is
a life-threatening condition in its extreme. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| shock resulting from blood or fluid loss. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an insufficiency of oxygen in the body's tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the superior and widest portion of the
pelvis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the consent it is presumed a patient or patient's parent or guardian would give if they could, such as for an unconscious patient or a parent who
cannot be contacted when care is needed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| in place of the parents, indicating a person who may give consent for care of a child when the parents are not present or able to give consent. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the person or persons who assume overall
direction of a large-scale incident. |
|
|
Term
| Incident Command System (ICS) |
|
Definition
| a subset of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) designed specifically for management of multiple-casualty incidents. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| awareness that there may be injuries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| specific signs or circumstances under which it is appropriate to administer a drug to a patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| expulsion of a fetus as a result of deliberate actions taken to stop the pregnancy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from birth to 1 year of age. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| away from the head; usually compared with another structure that is closer to the head (e.g.,the lips are inferior to the nose). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| poisons that are swallowed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an active process in which the intercostal (rib) muscles and the diaphragm contract, expanding the size of the chest cavity and causing air to flow into the lungs. Also called
inspiration. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| poisons that are breathed in. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a spray device with a mouthpiece that contains an aerosol form of a medication that a patient can spray into his airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| poisons that are inserted through the skin; for example, by needle, snake fangs, or insect stinger. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a hormone produced by the pancreas
or taken as a medication by many diabetics. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| terrorism that is foreign-based or directed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| actions taken to correct or manage a patient's problems. |
|
|
Term
| intracranial pressure (ICP) |
|
Definition
| pressure inside the skull. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| muscle that responds automatically to brain signals but cannot be consciously controlled. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the body has lost the battle to maintain when the body has lost the battle to maintain signs return, the patient may die days later due to organ failure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the lower, posterior portions of the pelvis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a means of correcting blockage of the airway by moving the jaw forward without tilting the head or neck. Used when trauma, or injury, is suspected
to open the airway without causing further injury to the spinal cord in the neck. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the point where two bones come together. |
|
|
Term
| jugular vein distention (JVD) |
|
Definition
| bulging of the neck veins. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| organs of the renal system used to filter blood and regulate fluid levels in the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
soft tissues that protect the entrance
to the vagina. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the three stages of the delivery of a baby that begin with the contractions of the uterus and end with the expulsion of the placenta. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a cut. In brain injuries, a cut to the brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the muscular tube that removes water from waste products received from the small intestine and moves anything not absorbed by the body toward
excretion from the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 61 years and older. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| to the side, away from the midline of the body. |
|
|
Term
| left ventricular assist device |
|
Definition
| (LVAD) a battery-powered mechanical pump implanted in the body to assist a failing left ventricle in pumping blood to the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| being held legally responsible. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| false or injurious information in written form. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| tissue that connects bone to bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the sensation of the fetus moving from high in the abdomen to low in the birth canal. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when an infant's limb protrudes from the vagina before the appearance of any other body part. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the largest organ of the body, which produces bile to assist in breakdown of fats and assists in the
metabolism of various substances in the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| cooling or freezing of particular (local) parts of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the organs where exchange of atmospheric
oxygen and waste carbon dioxide take place. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the cheek bone, also called the
zygomatic bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
protrusion on the side of the ankle.
The lateral malleolus, at the lower end of the fibula, is seen on the outer ankle; the medial malleolus, at the lower end of the tibia, is seen on
the inner ankle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the process of applying tension to straighten and realign a fractured limb before splinting. Also called tension. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the superior portion of the sternum. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the two fused bones forming the
upper jaw. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a force or forces that may have caused injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| amniotic fluid that is greenish or brownish-yellow rather than clear as a result of fetal defecation; an indication of possible maternal or fetal distress during labor. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| toward the midline of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| oversight of the patient-care aspects of an EMS system by the Medical Director. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a physician who assumes ultimate responsibility for the patient-care aspects of the EMS system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a patient suffering from one or more medical diseases or conditions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the cellular function of converting nutrients into energy. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a line drawn vertically from the
middle of the armpit to the ankle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the line through the center of each clavicle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 41 to 60 years. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an imaginary line drawn down the center of the body, dividing it into right and left halves. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the amount of air breathed in during each respiration multiplied by the number of breaths per minute. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a two-way radio that is used or affixed in a vehicle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| soft tissue that covers the pubic symphysis; area where hair grows as a woman reaches puberty. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| regarding personal standards or principles of right and wrong. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when startled, an infant throws his arms out, spreads his fingers, then grabs with his fingers and arms. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when more than one baby is born during a single delivery. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| more than one serious injury. |
|
|
Term
| multiple-casualty incident (MCI) |
|
Definition
| any medical or trauma incident involving multiple patients. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| one or more injuries that affect more than one body system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| tissues or fibers that cause movement of body parts and organs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the system of bones and skeletal muscles that support and protect the body and permit movement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a class of drugs that affect the nervous system and change many normal body activities. Their legal use is for the relief of pain. Illicit use is to produce an intense state of relaxation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the bones that form the upper third, or
bridge, of the nose |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device that delivers low concentrations of oxygen through two prongs that rest in the patient's nostrils. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a flexible breathing tube inserted through the patient's nose into the pharynx to help maintain an open airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the area directly posterior to
the nose. |
|
|
Term
| National Incident Management System (NIMS) |
|
Definition
| the management system used by federal, state, and local governments to manage emergencies in the United States. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| what is medically wrong with a patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a finding of failure to act properly in a situation in which there was a duty to act, that needed care as would reasonably be expected of the EMT was not provided, and that harm was caused to the patient as a result. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a newly born infant or an infant
less than 1 month old. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the system of brain, spinal cord, and nerves that govern sensation, movement, and thought. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a state of shock (hypoperfusion) caused by nerve paralysis that sometimes develops from spinal cord injuries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a drug that helps to dilate the coronary vessels that supply the heart muscle with blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a face mask and reservoir bag device that delivers high concentrations of oxygen. The patient's exhaled air escapes through a valve and is not rebreathed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a condition of having too much body fat, defined as a body mass index of 30 or greater. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
blockage, as of an artery by fatty
deposits. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any dressing that forms an airtight seal. |
|
|
Term
| off-line medical direction |
|
Definition
| standing orders issued by the Medical Director that allow EMTs to give certain medications or perform certain procedures without speaking to the Medical Director or another physician. |
|
|
Term
| on-line medical direction |
|
Definition
| orders given directly by the on-duty physician to an EMT in the field by radio or telephone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an extremity injury in which the skin has been broken or torn through from the inside by an injured bone or from the outside by something that has caused a penetrating wound with associated injury to the bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an injury in which the skin is interrupted, exposing the tissue beneath. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a memory aid in which the letters stand for questions asked to get a description of the present illness: onset, provokes, quality, radiation, severity, time. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a form of glucose (a kind of sugar)
given by mouth to treat an awake patient (who is able to swallow) with an altered mental status and a history of diabetes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bony structures around the eyes; the eye sockets. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a person who has completed a legal document that allows for donation of organs and tissues in the event of death. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a curved device inserted through the patient's mouth into the pharynx to help maintain an open airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the area directly posterior to
the mouth. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an external pouch that collects fecal matter diverted from the colon or ileum through a surgical opening (colostomy or ileostomy) in the abdominal wall. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
egg-producing organs within the female
reproductive system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the phase of the female reproductive cycle in which an ovum is released from the ovary. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a gas commonly found in the atmosphere. Pure oxygen is used as a drug to treat any patient whose medical or traumatic condition may cause him to be hypoxic, or low in oxygen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a cylinder filled with oxygen under pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the ratio of the amount of oxygen present in the blood to the amount that could be carried, expressed as a percentage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device implanted under the skin with wires implanted into the heart to modify the heart rate as needed to maintain an adequate heart rate. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| referring to the palm of the hand. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when you place your finger in an infant's palm, he will grasp it. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| touching or feeling. A pulse or blood pressure may be palpated with the fingertips. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a gland located behind the stomach that produces insulin and juices that assist in the digestion of food in the duodenum of the small intestine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| movement of ribs in a flail segment that is opposite to the direction of movement of the rest of the chest cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a localized, intense pain that arises from the parietal peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a face mask and reservoir oxygen bag with no one-way valve to the reservoir bag so that some
exhaled air mixes with the oxygen; used in some
patients to help preserve carbon dioxide levels in the blood to stimulate breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a seizure that affects only one part or one side of the brain. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a burn in which the epidermis (first layer of skin) is burned through and the dermis (second layer) is damaged. Burns of this type cause reddening, blistering, and a mottled appearance. Also called a second-degree bum. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| covering a hypothermic patient and taking other steps to prevent further heat loss and help the body rewarm itself. |
|
|
Term
| past medical history (PMH) |
|
Definition
| information gathered regarding the patient's health problems in the past. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| open and clear; free from obstruction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an airway (passage from nose or mouth to lungs) that is open and clear and will remain open and clear, without interference to the passage of air into and out of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the organisms that cause infection, such as viruses and bacteria. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of how disease processes affect the function of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the long-term survival of patients, |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| accumulation of fluid in the feet or ankles. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
of or pertaining to a patient who
has yet to reach puberty. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the basin-shaped bony structure that supports the spine and is the point of proximal attachment for the lower extremities. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| injury caused by an object that passes through the skin or other body tissues. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the organ of male reproduction responsible for sexual intercourse and the transfer of sperm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the supply of oxygen to, and removal of wastes from, the cells and tissues of the body as a result of the flow of blood through the capillaries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the surface area between the
vagina and anus. |
|
|
Term
| peripheral nervous system (PNS) |
|
Definition
| the nerves that enter and leave the spinal cord and travel between the brain and organs without passing through the spinal cord. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the radial, brachial, posterior tibial, and dorsalis pedis pulses, which can be felt at peripheral (outlying)
points of the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity (the parietal peritoneum) and covers the organs within it (the visceral peritoneum). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| bacterial infection within the peritoneal cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the movement of a substance through a surface or, on a molecular level, through intact materials; penetration, or spreading. |
|
|
Term
| personal protective equipment (PPE) |
|
Definition
| equipment that protects the EMS worker from infection and/or exposure to the dangers of rescue operations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the toe bones and finger bones. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of the effects of medications on the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of drugs, their sources, their characteristics, and their effects. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the area directly posterior to the
mouth and nose. It is made up of the oropharynx and the nasopharynx. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the study of body function. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the organ of pregnancy where exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and wastes occurs between a mother and fetus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a condition in which the placenta is formed in an abnormal location (low in the uterus and close to or over the cervical opening) that will not allow for a normal delivery of the fetus; a cause of excessive prebirth bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a flat surface formed when slicing through a solid object. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| referring to the sole of the foot. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the fluid portion of the blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pull exerted by large proteins in the plasma portion of blood that tends to pull water from the body into the bloodstream. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| components of the blood; membrane-enclosed fragments of specialized cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a device, usually with a one-way valve, to aid in artificial ventilation. A rescuer breathes through
the valve when the mask is placed over the
patient's face. It also acts as a barrier to prevent
contact with a patient's breath or body fluids. It can be used with supplemental oxygen when fitted with an oxygen inlet. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any substance that can harm the body by altering cell structure or functions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a handheld two-way radio. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| inadequate breathing or respiratory arrest caused by a body position that restricts breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the back of the body or body part. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
artery supplying the foot, behind the
medial ankle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the period of time immediately
following a tonic-clonic seizure in which the
patient goes from full loss of consciousness to full
mental status. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| gripping with as much hand surface as possible in contact with the object being lifted, all fingers bent at the same angle, and hands at least 10 inches apart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a lift from a squatting position with weight to be lifted close to the body, feet apart and flat on the ground, body weight on or just behind the balls of
the feet, and the back locked-in. The upper body is raised before the hips. Also called the squat-lift position. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a complication of pregnancy in which the woman retains large amounts of fluid and has hypertension. She may
also experience seizures and/or coma during birth, which is very dangerous to the infant. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| word part added to the beginning of a root or word to modify or qualify its meaning. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any newborn weighing less than 5 1/2 pounds or born before the 37th week of pregnancy. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 3 to 5 years. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a bulky dressing held in position with a tightly wrapped bandage, which applies pressure to help control bleeding. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device connected to an oxygen cylinder to reduce cylinder pressure so it is safe for delivery of oxygen to a patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| persistent erection of the penis that may result from spinal injury and some medical problems. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the first element in a patient assessment; steps taken for the purpose of discovering and dealing with any life-threatening problems. The six parts of primary assessment are: forming a general impression, assessing mental status, assessing airway, assessing breathing, assessing
circulation, and determining the priority of the patient for treatment and transport to the hospital. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the decision regarding the need for immediate transport of the patient versus further assessment and care at the scene. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the umbilical cord presents first and is squeezed between the vaginal wall and the baby's head. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the umbilical cord presents first and is squeezed between the vaginal wall and the baby's head. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
lists of steps, such as assessments and
interventions, to be taken in different situations. Protocols are developed by the Medical Director of an EMS system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the medial anterior portion of the pelvis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| accumulation of fluid in the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and circulating blood in the pulmonary capillaries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the rhythmic beats caused as waves of blood move through and expand the arteries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an electronic device for determining the amount of oxygen carried in the blood, known as the oxygen saturation or Sp02 |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the rhythm (regular or irregular) and force (strong or weak) of the pulse. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the number of pulse beats per minute. |
|
|
Term
| pulseless electrical activity (PEA) |
|
Definition
| a condition in which the heart's electrical rhythm remains relatively normal, yet the mechanical pumping activity fails to follow the electrical activity, causing cardiac arrest. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an open wound that tears through the skin and destroys underlying tissues. A penetrating puncture wound can be shallow or deep. A perforating puncture wound has both an entrance and an exit wound. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the black center of the eye. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a process of continuous self-review with the purpose of identifying and correcting aspects of the system that require improvement. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| artery of the lower arm. It is felt when taking the pulse at the wrist. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pulse felt at the wrist. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| sending out energy, such as heat, in waves into space. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the lateral bone of the forearm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a rapid assessment of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, and posterior of the body to detect signs and symptoms of injury. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| in the pupils of the eyes, reacting to light by changing size. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a procedure for detecting changes in a patient's condition. It involves four steps: repeating the primary assessment, repeating and recording vital signs, repeating the physical exam, and checking interventions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| lying on the side. also, called lateral recumbent position. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| components of the blood. They carry oxygen to, and carbon dioxide away from, the cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a sign or symptom that suggests the possibility of a particular problem that is very serious. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| pain that is felt in a location other than where the pain originates. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| roentgen equivalent (in) man; a measure of radiation dosage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| loss of the kidneys' ability to filter the blood and remove toxins and excess fluid from the body. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the body system that regulates fluid balance and the filtration of blood. Also called the urinary system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a device that picks up signals from lower-power radio units, such as mobile and portable radios, and retransmits them at a higher power. It allows
low-power radio signals to be transmitted over longer distances. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the body system that is responsible for human reproduction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a Latin term meaning "the thing speaks for itself." |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and the blood (pulmonary respiration) and
between the blood and the cells (cellular respiration). Also used to
mean, simply, breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when breathing completely stops. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| increased work of breathing; a sensation of shortness of breath. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the reduction of breathing to the point where oxygen intake is not sufficient to support life. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the normal or abnormal (shallow, labored, or noisy) character of breathing. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the number of breaths taken in 1 minute. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the regular or irregular spacing of breaths. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the regular or irregular spacing of breaths. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the system of nose, mouth, throat, lungs, and muscles that brings oxygen into the body and expels carbon
dioxide. |
|
|
Term
| reticular activating system (RAS) |
|
Definition
series of neurologic circuits in the brain that control the functions of staying awake, paying attention, and
sleeping. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
pulling in of the skin and soft tissue between the ribs when breathing. This
is typically a sign of respiratory distress in children. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the area posterior to the peritoneum, between the peritoneum and the back |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| foundation of a word that is not a word that can stand on its own. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when you touch a hungry infant's cheek, he will turn his head toward the side touched. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| pathways into the body, generally by absorption, ingestion, injection, or inhalation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a method for estimating the extent of a burn. For an adult, each of the following areas represents 9 percent of the body surface: the head and neck, each upper extremity, the chest, the abdomen, the upper back, the lower back and buttocks, the front of each lower
extremity, and the back of each lower extremity. The remaining 1 percent is assigned to the genital region. For an infant or child, the percentages are modified so that 18 percent is assigned to the head, 14 percent to each lower extremity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a method for estimating the extent of a burn. The palm of the patient's own hand, which equals about 1 percent of the body's surface area, is compared with the patient's burn to estimate its
size. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a law that permits a person to drop off an infant or child at a police, fire, or EMS station or to deliver the infant or child to any available public safety personnel. The intent of the law is to protect children who may otherwise be abandoned or harmed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a memory aid in which the letters stand for elements of the past medical history: signs and symptoms, allergies, medications, pertinent past history, last oral intake, and events leading to the injury or illness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| building on what one already knows. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| steps taken when approaching the scene of an emergency call: checking scene safety, taking Standard Precautions, noting the mechanism of injury or nature of the patient's illness, determining the number of patients, and deciding what, if any, additional resources to call for. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 6 to 12 years. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a set of regulations and ethical considerations that define the scope, or extent and limits, of the EMT's job. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
destructive devices, such as bombs, placed to be activated after an
initial attack and timed to injure emergency responders and others
who rush in to help care for those targeted by an initial attack. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a sudden change in sensation, behavior, or movement. The most severe form of seizure produces violent muscle
contractions called convulsions. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the body's inability to adequately circulate blood to the body's cells
to supply them with oxygen and nutrients, which is a life-threatening condition. Also known as hypoperfusion. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an inherited disease in which a genetic defect in the he moglobin results in abnormal structure of the red blood cells. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any action of a drug other than the desired action. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| command organization in which a single agency controls all resources and operations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the layer of tissue between the body and the external environment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bony structure of the head. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| false or injurious information stated verbally. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the muscular tube between the stomach and the large intestine, divided into the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum, which receives partially digested food from the stomach and continues digestion. Nutrients are absorbed by the body through its walls. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the cuff and gauge used to measure
blood pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bony bump on a vertebra. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
an organ located in the left upper quadrant of the abdomen that acts
as a blood filtration system and a reservoir for reserves of blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when the fetus and placenta deliver before the 28th week of pregnancy; commonly called a miscarriage. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the stretching and tearing of ligaments. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the area where ambulances are parked and other resources are held until needed. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
person responsible for overseeing
ambulances and ambulance personnel at a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
for an EMT providing care for a specific patient in a specific
situation, the care that would be expected to be provided by an EMT with similar training when caring for a patient in a similar situation. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a strict form of infection control that is based on the assumption that all blood and other body fluids are infectious. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a policy or protocol issued by a Medical Director that authorizes
EMTs and others to perform particular skills in certain situations. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a prolonged seizure or
situation when a person suffers two or more convulsive seizures without regaining full consciousness. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a permanent surgical opening in the neck through which the patient breathes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| muscular sac between the esophagus and the small intestine where digestion of food begins. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
muscle injury resulting from overstretching or overexertion of the
muscle. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| broad general plans designed to achieve desired outcomes. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a state of physical and/or psychological arousal to a stimulus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| sensors in blood vessels that identify internal pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a high pitched sound generated from partially obstructed air flow in the upper airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
a condition of altered function caused when an artery in the brain is
blocked or ruptured, disrupting the supply of oxygenated blood or
causing bleeding into the brain. Formerly called a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the amount of blood ejected from the
heart in one contraction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the layers of fat and soft tissues found below the dermis. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an open chest wound in which air is "sucked" into the chest cavity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| when you stroke a hungry infant's lips, he will start sucking. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| use of a vacuum device to remove blood, vomitus, and other secretions or foreign materials from the airway. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a cardiac arrest that occurs within 2 hours of the onset of symptoms. The patient may have no prior symptoms of coronary artery disease. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| word part added to the end of a root or word to complete its meaning. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a burn that involves only the pidermis, the outer layer of the skin. It is characterized by reddening of the skin and perhaps some swelling. A common example is a sunburn. Also called a first-degree burn. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| toward the head (e.g., the chest is superior to the abdomen). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| supine hypotensive syndrome |
|
Definition
| dizziness and a drop in blood pressure caused when the mother is in a supine position and the weight of the uterus, infant, placenta, and amniotic fluid compress the inferior vena cava, reducing return of blood to the heart and cardiac output. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| systemic vascular resistance (SVR) |
|
Definition
| the pressure in the peripheral blood vessels that the heart must overcome in order to pump blood into the system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the pressure created when the heart contracts and forces blood out into the arteries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a rapid pulse; any pulse rate above 100 beats per minute. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| specific operational actions to accomplish assigned tasks. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| sharp pain that feels as if body tissues are being torn apart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the infant's reaction to his environment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| bone that forms part of the side of the skull and floor of the cranial cavity. There is a right and a left temporal bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the movable joint formed between the mandible and the temporal bone, also called the TMJ. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| tissue that connects muscle to bone. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a type of pneumothorax in which air that enters the chest cavity is prevented from escaping. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to
intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives (U.S. Department of Justice, FBI, definition). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the male organ of reproduction
used for the production of sperm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a vibration felt on gentle palpation, such as that which typically occurs within an arterial-venous fistula. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a clot formed of blood and plaque attached to the inner wall of an artery or vein. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the wing-shaped plate of cartilage that sits anterior to the larynx and forms the Adam's apple. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the medial and larger bone of the lower leg. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the volume of air moved in one cycle of breathing |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stage of life from 12 to 36 months. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a generalized seizure in which the patient loses consciousness and has jerking movements of paired muscle groups. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the trunk of the body; the body without the head and the extremities. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a civil, not a criminal, offense; an action or injury caused by negligence from which a lawsuit may arise. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device used for bleeding control that constricts all blood flow to and from an extremity. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a poisonous substance secreted by bacteria, plants, or animals. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the "windpipe"; the structure that connects the pharynx to the lungs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a surgical incision held open by a metal or plastic tube. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device designed to be placed over a stoma or tracheostomy tube to provide supplemental oxygen. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a splint that applies constant pull along the length of a lower extremity to help stabilize the fractured bone and to reduce muscle spasm in the limb. Traction splints are used primarily on femoral shaft fractures. |
|
|
Term
| transportation supervisor |
|
Definition
| person responsible for communicating with sector officers and hospitals to manage transportation of patients to hospitals from a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a patient suffering from one or more physical injuries. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a system of evaluating trauma patients according to a numerical rating system to determine the severity of the patient's trauma. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the area in which patients are treated at a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| person responsible for overseeing treatment of patients who have been triaged at a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a position in which the patient's feet and legs are higher than the head. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
changes in a patient's condition over time, such as slowing
respirations or rising pulse rate, that may sh
ow improvement or deterioration, and that can be shown by documenting repeated assessments. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the process of quickly assessing pat
ients at a multiple
-
casualty
incident and assigning each a priority for receiving treatment; from
a French word meaning "to sort." |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the area where secondary triage takes place at a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the person responsible for overseeing triage at a multiple-casualty incident. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| color-coded tag indicating the priority group to which a patient has been assigned. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
concept developed from an orderly, predictable environment versus
a disorderly, irregular environment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
the medial bone of the
forearm. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the fetal structure containing the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the placenta. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| command organization in which several agencies work independently but cooperatively. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| an effect of a medication in addition to its desired effect that may be potentially harmful to the patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| stimulants such as amphetamines that affect the central nervous system to excite the user. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| tube connecting the bladder to the vagina or penis for excretion of urine. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a tube inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine from the bladder. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the muscular female abdominal organ where the fetus develops; the womb. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| ventilation/perfusion match. This implies that the alveoli are supplied with enough air and that the air in the aveoli is matched with sufficient blood in the pulmonary capillaries to permit optimum exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the female organ of reproduction used for both sexual intercourse and as an exit from the uterus for the fetus. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a structure that opens and closes to permit the flow of a fluid in only one direction. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| any blood vessel returning blood to the heart. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the superior vena cava and the inferior vena cava. These two major veins return blood from the body to the right Atrium. (Venae cavae is plural, vena cava singular.) |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a toxin (poison) produced by certain animals such as snakes, spiders, and some marine life forms. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
bleeding from a vein, which is characterized by dark red or maroon
blood and a steady, easy-to-control flow. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the process of moving gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) between inhaled air and the pulmonary circulation of blood. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a device that breathes for a patient. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
referring to the front of the body. A
synonym for anterior. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the two lower chambers of the heart. There is a right ventricle (which sends oxygen-poor blood to the lungs) and a left ventricle (which sends oxygen-rich blood to the body). |
|
|
Term
| ventricular fibrillation (VF) |
|
Definition
a condition in which the heart's
electrical impulses are disorganized, preventing the heart muscle from contracting normally. |
|
|
Term
| ventricular tachycardia (V-tach) |
|
Definition
a condition in which the heartbeat is quite rapid; if rapid enough, ventricular tachycardia will not allow the heart's chambers to fill with
enough blood between beats to produce blood flow sufficient to meet the body's needs. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a face mask and reservoir bag device that delivers specific concentrations of oxygen by mixing oxygen with inhaled air. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the smallest kind of vein. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the bones of the spinal column (singular vertebra). |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| a poorly localized, dull, or diffuse pain that arises from the abdominal organs, or viscera. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
outward signs of what is going on inside the body, including
respiration; pulse; skin color, temperature, and condition (plus
capillary refill in infants and children); pupils; and blood pressure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| vaporizing compounds, such as cleaning fluid, that are breathed in by the abuser to produce a "high." |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| muscle that can be consciously controlled. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| area where personnel and equipment decontamination and hot zone support take place; it includes control points for the access corridor and thus assists in reducing the spread of contamination. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| chilling caused by conduction of heat from the body when the body or clothing is wet. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the unit of measurement of the output power of a radio. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| packaging or producing a material, such as a chemical, biological, or radiological agent, so that it can be used as a weapon; for example, by dissemination in a bomb detonation or as an aerosol sprayed over an area or introduced into a ventilation system. |
|
|
Term
| weapons of mass destruction (WMD) |
|
Definition
| weapons, devices, or agents intended to cause widespread harm and/or fear among a population. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| components of the blood. They produce substances that help the body fight infection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| chilling caused by convection of heat from the body in the presence of air currents. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| referring to alcohol or drug withdrawal in which the patient's body reacts severely when deprived of the abused substance. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| the inferior portion of the sternum. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| able to move through the animal-human barrier; transmissible from animals to humans. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| bones that form the structure of the cheeks. |
|
|
