MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
The two past decades have witnessed major advancements in the field of emergency medicine. One of the areas most influenced by the increased knowledge and improved skills has been the care of sick and injured persons before they arrive at the hospital. The practitioners of this "prehospital" medical care are called emergency medical technicians.
An emergency can be either medical or trauma. Examples of medical emergencies include cardiac arrest, diabetic coma, seizures, heart attacks, and infectious diseases. Trauma includes virtually all forms of injury, such as cuts, broken bones, head injuries, and burns, as well as environmental injuries near drowning, hypothermia, and smoke inhalation.
The Ten-Minute Assessment
To successfully initiate treatment of the acutely ill or injured person requires a systematic approach called the ten-minute assessment. The three major concerns during this assessment are:
1. Identify and attempt to correct life threatening problems.
2.Identify injuries or medical problems that require stabilization first.
3. Keep the person stable and reassured.
Remember: Assessments should be performed repeatedly and frequently, depending on the seriousness of the problem.
