How to Take a Medical History During First Aid

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TakeMedicalHistoryDuringFirstAid
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How to Take a Medical History During First Aid

Introduction

Information about illness or injuries can be gathered by asking the injured person a series of questions regarding things that can't easily be observed. Pass this information on to medical professionals when care is transferred.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Signs and Symptoms

Steps

1

Step One

Ask the injured person to describe how she is feeling. What is this person's biggest concern?
2

Step Two

Ask the injured person to describe the pain. See "How to Assess Level of Pain."

Tips & Warnings

  • Question the patient in nonleading ways. For example, ask "How does your stomach feel?" instead of "Are you nauseated?"

Allergies, Medications and Last Oral Intake

Steps

1

Step One

Ask the injured person if she has any allergies to foods or medications.
2

Step Two

Ask the injured person if she is using any medications, and note the name and dosage. Be sure to ask about any illegal medications or recreational drugs as well.
3

Step Three

Ask the injured person when she last had anything to eat or drink, and what was consumed.

Tips & Warnings

  • This is important information for medical professionals to know in the event that an injured person needs surgery.

Past History and Recent Events

Steps

1

Step One

Ask the injured person if she has ever been hospitalized before and for what, and whether she is currently under the care of a physician.
2

Step Two

Ask the person whether she has had symptoms similar to what she is now reporting.
3

Step Three

Ask the injured person to describe all of the events leading up to the incident or emergence of the first symptoms.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • Take a medical history as soon as possible, while the injured person is able to communicate with you. Important information may be lost if the injured person loses consciousness. You may ask these questions while conducting a head-to-toe exam. (See "How to Conduct a Head-to-Toe Exam During First Aid.")
  • If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • First Aid Kits
  • Wilderness First Aid Classes
  • Notebooks
  • Pens
  • Latex Gloves
  • First Aid Classes
Tools: |