Review Questions: Medical Emergencies

Explanation
When giving abdominal thrusts to an adult who is choking, it is important to put the thumb side of your fist slightly above her navel (belly button) and well below the breastbone. This is the correct position to apply pressure and force to dislodge the object blocking the airway. Placing the hands near the throat or the left side of the lower abdomen would not effectively target the area where the pressure needs to be applied.

Explanation
A severe allergic reaction can cause various symptoms, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and tongue, and loss of consciousness. These signs indicate that the body is experiencing a severe immune response to an allergen. Therefore, the statement is true as it accurately describes the signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Explanation
A person who is awake and can talk but has an uncomfortable feeling, such as pain or pressure in the chest, is likely experiencing a heart attack. Unlike a stroke, which affects the brain and can cause difficulty speaking or understanding speech, a heart attack involves a blockage of blood flow to the heart. This can cause chest pain or discomfort, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms. A seizure, on the other hand, is characterized by uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain and can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, and confusion.

Explanation
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, is a warning sign of a stroke. A stroke occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, leading to the death of brain cells. This can result in various symptoms, including numbness or weakness on one side of the body. Fainting, heart attack, and seizure do not typically present with these specific symptoms, making stroke the correct answer.

Explanation
If someone with low blood sugar is able to sit up and swallow, it is recommended to give them something that contains sugar to eat or drink. This is because sugar can quickly raise their blood sugar levels and help alleviate the symptoms of low blood sugar.