Demonstrate the assessment and management of patients experiencing cardiovascular emergencies.
Demonstration should include the anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, assessment, and management of
- acute coronary syndrome (e.g., angina pectoris, myocardial infarction)
- aortic aneurysm/dissection
- thromboembolism
- heart failure
- hypertensive emergencies
- other cardiovascular disorders to be determined locally.
Demonstration also includes administration of cardiac medications, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and acquisition of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).
Demonstration should include psychosocial aspects of age-related assessment and treatment modifications for the major or common diseases and/or emergencies associated with pediatric and geriatric patients.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What is the best treatment for a hypertensive emergency?
- What are the advantages to using an automated external defibrillator (AED)?
- What are some common errors in using an AED?
- What are three consequences of an acute myocardial infarction?
- What are the cardiac medications an EMT can administer?
- How many electrodes are used to complete a 12-lead ECG?