Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

6 Medical Emergencies

Altered Mental Status – AMS Altered mental status is quite simply the patient not behaving normally. They may not be thinking clearly or not responding to their environment. They may be unconscious or seem alert but confused.

Reducing a Fever • If the child is fully conscious, encourage fluids • Have the parent or caregiver seek medical advice before they give any medicine • Children’s ibuprofen or acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol® and Tempra®) may be used to reduce fever. Never use ASA (e.g. Aspirin®) • Control persistent fever by a sponge bath with tepid water, 15 minutes at a time. Do not immerse the child in water. Dry and dress in comfortable, light clothing • Repeat sponge baths as necessary until medical care becomes available

Causes of AMS

• Head injury • Brain infection • Brain tumors • Poisoning • Drug overdose

• Hypoglycemia – Low blood sugar • Hypoxia – Low oxygen • Intoxication • High body temperature

First aid for altered mental status relies on providing supportive care for the cause and getting medical help for the patient. Carefully assess the patient for other signs and symptoms that can explain an AMS. Use caution when interacting with anyone with an AMS. They may be confused and unpredictable, and they could become violent.

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