Emergency Medicine: ABCs & Resuscitation

What does the acronym ABCDE stand for in the context of the primary survey?

Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure.

What is the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR with a single rescuer?

30 compressions to 2 breaths.

Which two cardiac rhythms are considered 'shockable' in the ACLS pulseless arrest algorithm?

Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) and pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (pVT).

In which type of patient is an Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA) contraindicated?

Conscious or semi-conscious patients with an intact gag reflex.

What is the primary goal of the 'Exposure' phase in the primary survey?

To completely undress the patient to identify hidden injuries while preventing hypothermia.

What is the preferred airway adjunct for a conscious patient who requires airway support but has a gag reflex?

Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA).

What are the three components of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) used in the 'Disability' assessment?

Eye opening, Verbal response, and Motor response.

Why is Etomidate often preferred as an induction agent for Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI) in unstable patients?

It is hemodynamically neutral, meaning it has minimal effect on blood pressure and heart rate.

What is a major contraindication for using Succinylcholine in RSI?

Hyperkalemia (or conditions predisposing to it, like burns or crush injuries over 24-48 hours old).

Which type of shock is characterized by low systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and often presents with warm extremities?

Distributive shock (e.g., Septic, Anaphylactic, or Neurogenic shock).