Shelley Westwood, RN, BSN

Transcription

1 Shelley Westwood, RN, BSN

2 The body requires a constant supply of oxygen for survival. AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITION Copyright 2006 by The American National Red Cross All rights reserved.

3 For all first aid emergencies: Check the scene and the victim Call Care for the victim

4 There are two types of breathing emergencies: Respiratory distress Respiratory arrest Both conditions are life threatening.

5 Respiratory distress is a condition in which breathing becomes difficult. Respiratory arrest occurs when breathing stops. By recognizing respiratory distress and taking immediate action, you may prevent respiratory arrest.

6 Sweating and flushed skin Chest pain Breathing that is very fast or very slow Having trouble with every breath Has noisy breathing Can only make sounds or speak no more than a few words at a time in between breaths Agitation Increased heart rate

7 Most common cause of respiratory distress: Airway obstruction Mechanical airway blocked by foreign object (choking) Anatomical airway blocked by tongue or swollen tissues of mouth and/or throat (like in a severe allergic reaction)

8 Asthma The characteristic sign of asthma is wheezing when exhaling.

9 Bronchitis Condition resulting in inflammation of the lining of the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles. The inflammation causes a build-up of mucus that obstructs air passages.

10 CHECK the scene and the victim CALL CARE for conditions you find Loosen any tight clothing. Provide fresh air. Check for other life-threatening conditions. Provide any condition specific treatment (i.e. inhaler for asthma)

11 Signals of respiratory distress in children are basically the same as in an adult. May have more mouth breathing Drooling Bluish skin especially around the mouth Nasal flaring Retractions.

12 Respiratory infections are more common in children and infants and can cause distress. Common infections: Croup A viral infection that causes swelling of the tissues around the vocal cords. Epiglottitis A bacterial infection that causes severe inflammation of the epiglottis.

13 Epiglottitis

14 A local or generalized reaction to internal or external contact with a specific allergen to which a person has been previously sensitized.

15 Mild reactions Stuffy nose Sneezing Itchy eyes Itchy skin Raised red rash on skin (hives) Severe reactions Trouble breathing Swelling of tongue and face Signs of shock

16 A life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur quickly (as fast as within a couple of minutes). Symptoms of anaphylaxis vary, but can include: hives itching flushing swelling of the lips, tongue, and roof of the mouth. The airway is often affected, resulting in tightness of the throat, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. These reactions can also be accompanied by chest pain, low blood pressure, dizziness and headaches.

17 Anaphylaxis can be caused by a number of triggers Certain foods--eggs, nuts and chocolate are common offenders Stinging and biting insects-especially bee and wasp stings Medications Latex

18 EpiPen (epinephrine) Auto-Injectors are for the emergency treatment of life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) caused by allergens, exercise, or unknown triggers; and for people who are at increased risk for these reactions.

19 EpiPen Auto-Injectors contain a single dose of epinephrine, which you inject into your outer thigh. Intended for immediate self administration as emergency supportive therapy only. Seek immediate emergency medical treatment after use.

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21 A short period when a person stops responding for less than a minute and then seems fine. Caused by not enough blood going to the brain. Often preceded by other symptoms: Dizziness. Nausea Perspiration Pale, clammy skin Tingling in the hands, feet, and face Blurred vision or seeing spots Ringing in the ears Sensation that the room is spinning or moving

22 Fainting may occur if a person Stands without moving for a long time, especially if the weather is hot Has a heart condition Suddenly stands after squatting or bending down Receives bad news.

23 If a person feels dizzy but remains responsive and alert Check scene for safety Gave person lie flat on floor If condition doesn t improve or they stop responding, call 9-1-1

24 If a person faints and then starts to respond Ask person to continue to lie flat on the floor If person fell, look for other injuries Call 9-1-1