EMS Pediatric Overdose

Learner will arrive on-scene to find a 4-year-old male patient with decreased responsiveness, pinpoint pupils, and shallow respirations. Learner will perform an initial assessment and identify that the patient ingested some hydrocodone-acetaminophen tablets that belonged to the parent, with an open bottle on the bathroom counter. Learner will recognize signs of opiate overdose, provide respiratory support, administer naloxone, and check blood glucose. Ultimately, the patient will require hospital transport for definitive therapy. Learner should provide a report to the receiving facility, noting concern for possible acetaminophen overdose along with opiate overdose.

Learning Objectives

– Assesses scene, identifying any potential safety concerns, number of patients, presence of bystanders, and additional resources available

– Conducts primary survey and obtains vital signs with attention to the following:
a. Determines level of consciousness and identifies mental status impairment
b. Identifies any signs of airway obstruction, hypoxia, or any observable breathing difficulties
c. Identifies any profuse bleeding, signs of decreased or absent circulation, or any pulse deficits in extremities

– Performs immediate interventions to address concerns identified during the primary survey

– Determines priority of transport

– Conducts a secondary survey to gather additional pertinent HPI and PMH and conduct a focused physical exam

– Performs any necessary medical interventions to ensure patient stability and safety during transport

– Contacts Medical Direction when indicated

– Provides verbal report summarizing patient encounter

– Identifies clinical concern for opiate overdose and renders appropriate treatment

– Obtains appropriate history including time of ingestion and estimated amount