Paramedic terminology can be complicated and may differ from what you may expect in regular medical training. Paramedics are highly trained professionals who perform lifesaving procedures in extreme situations.
A call to 911 ambulance is not something you would want to be part of your day, but there is some paramedic terminology you might want to know if it happens.
10 paramedic terminology phrases everyone should know:
Anaphylactic Shock
This phrase referred to the collapse of the circulatory system function and decreased blood pressure from an allergic reaction. Caused by an allergic reaction to medications, bee stings, other insect bites and certain foods, it can be a life-threatening condition that can result in death if not treated immediately. What can you do in case of anaphylactic shock?
Atrial Tachycardia
Not a life-threatening situation, it refers to the uncontrolled rapid heartbeat in the atria of the heart. If left unattended, it can cause blood clots which can cause a stroke.
Triage
This paramedic terminology indicates the medical response according to the urgency of the patient’s condition or illness. It also refers to deciding the order of treatment for a large number of casualties and patients.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Commonly known as CPR, a lifesaving procedure used when the patient has stopped breathing or heart has stopped beating. It combines hand pressure on the chest for blood circulation and breathing into the patient’s mouth to introduce air into the lungs. It is one of the procedures that anyone can learn and can come in handy in emergency situations.
Cardiac Arrest
Also known as heart attack, cardiac arrest refers to the sudden cessation of the heart function – temporary or permanent. Paramedics use an Automatic External Defibrillator as soon as possible.
Advanced Life Support (ALS)
Paramedic terminology for advanced level emergency care, the procedure involves responders administer invasive lifesaving procedures such as intravenous (IV) infusions, tracheal intubation, electrocardiogram interpretation and medication administration.
Supra- Ventricular Tachycardia
It denotes a life-threatening condition to synchronized rapid contraction of heart ventricles, causing decreased cardiac function and if left untreated or corrected can cause death.
Collapsed Lung
A collapsed lung can be caused by trauma to chest cavity (fractured rib, trauma from a knife, bullet or another sharp object), smoking, drug abuse and certain lung diseases.
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
A fast, abnormal heart rate in the heart’s ventricular section, this condition reduces cardiac function in the heart’s lower chambers. Potentially life-threatening if it progresses to V-fib.
Ventricular Fibrillation (V-fib or VF)
It refers to abnormal heart rhythm with no cardiac output. An electric defibrillator gives an electric shock to correct this condition, allowing the heart to return to a normal rhythm. It can be a life-threatening situation if not repaired immediately.
Want to know what it is like to be a primary care paramedic? Talk to our subject matter experts at 905 212 9039 or visit www.paramedicacademy.biz.
