Field Check Operations Manual, 2009 - American Public Gardens ...

‣ Asthma attack
• Signs: straining to breathe, difficulty walking or talking, use of inhaler
does not relieve symptoms
Ask: Do you have an inhaler?
‣ Falls, sprains, punctures, dog bites, ingestion of plant material (make sure a
sample is brought with the patient to the emergency room)
‣ Heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest
• Signs: chest discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, numbness,
confusion, dizziness, severe headache, loss of consciousness. Note: An
AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available in the Hunnewell
Visitor Center
‣ Insulin shock
• Signs: fast breathing, dizziness, change in level of consciousness,
sweating, headache
Ask: Are you diabetic? Have you eaten today? Have you taken
your medication today?
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