Asthma attacks can be frightening and life-threatening, but Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are trained to provide effective care to manage these situations.
Initial Assessment
Upon arrival, EMTs evaluate the scene and once it is determined it is safe to do so, the EMT will run the Initial Assessment. They look for signs of severe distress, such as cyanosis (bluish skin), inability to speak in full sentences, and extreme shortness of breath.
Oxygen Administration
When appropriate, oxygen is administered to help improve oxygen levels in the blood. EMTs have a variety of tools that can be used to administer oxygen depending on the severity of the attack and the patient's condition.
Medication Administration
The ability to administer medications is dependent on the laws and protocols of the EMS system they work within and can ONLY be done after a thorough assessment has been performed. Medication administration is also something that is only legal if it is approved by the Medical Director and is legal in their EMS system.
Medications that may provide relief during an asthma attack include:
Albuterol: This medication can relax the muscles around the airways and improve airflow.
Epinephrine: For severe asthma attacks, especially those that do not respond to initial treatments, epinephrine is sometimes administered to reduce airway inflammation and constriction.
Monitoring and Support
Throughout the treatment, EMTs continuously monitor the patient’s condition. They may use a pulse oximeter to check oxygen levels and listen to the patient’s lung sounds with a stethoscope to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Transportation to a Medical Facility
EMTs typically transport the patient to the nearest appropriate medical facility for further evaluation and treatment. During transport, they continue to monitor and manage the patient’s condition, ensuring that they receive the necessary care en route to the hospital.
Communication with Medical Staff
Upon arrival at the hospital, EMTs provide a detailed report to the emergency department staff, including the patient’s medical history, the severity of the asthma attack, the treatments administered, and the patient’s response to those treatments. This ensures a smooth transition of care and allows hospital staff to continue appropriate treatment.
By following these protocols, EMTs play a crucial role in managing asthma attacks and ensuring that patients receive the timely and effective care they need.
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