Recognising and Triaging Medical Emergencies in General Practice for Non-Clinical Staff

Course Overview

This course is specifically tailored for both clinical and non-clinical staff working in general practice and primary care settings. It aims to provide comprehensive training on recognising, responding to, and effectively managing medical emergencies that may occur in a primary care setting. The second half of the session participants will learn essential skills and knowledge to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and colleagues while maintaining a professional and coordinated response during critical situations.

Aims

This session aims to develop the skills of clinical and non-clinical staff in recognising and dealing with emergencies in primary care settings.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify and differentiate common medical emergencies in a general practice setting, recognise crucial signs and symptoms, and review CPR and AED usage.
• Develop clear communication skills for emergency situations and understand how to initiate and coordinate an emergency response, including the use of necessary equipment and supplies.
• Gain knowledge in providing first aid for various emergencies and injuries, while adhering to safety protocols and infection control measures to protect both patients and staff.
• Develop understanding of the importance of teamwork in crisis situations, participate in simulated emergency scenarios, and learn how to provide post-emergency support to patients and colleagues.
• Explore the legal and ethical aspects of emergency care, understand the importance of patient confidentiality and consent, and appreciate the critical role of accurate documentation during and after emergencies.

Here is an outline of some common medical emergencies that could occur in general practice and primary care settings that will be covered in the session
1. Cardiac Arrest
2. Anaphylaxis
3. Seizures
4. Respiratory Distress
5. Syncope (Fainting)
6. Chest Pain or Angina
7. Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident)
8. Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar)
9. Hypertensive Crisis
10. Allergic Reactions
11. Choking
12. Burns
13. Trauma and Injuries
14. Drug Overdoses

Target Audience

Non – clinical and Clinical staff in general practice

Course Content

Understand Common Medical Emergencies:

• Identify and differentiate common medical emergencies encountered in general practice.
• Recognize signs and symptoms of conditions such as cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, seizures, and respiratory distress.

Effective Communication and Reporting:

• Develop clear communication skills to quickly convey vital information to healthcare providers and emergency services.
• Understand the importance of accurate documentation during and after an emergency.

Emergency Response Procedures:

• Learn how to initiate and coordinate an emergency response within the practice.
• Familiarise yourself with the location and use of emergency equipment and supplies.

Basic Life Support (BLS) Skills:

• Review CPR and how to use AEDs effectively.

First Aid:

• Gain knowledge and skills in providing first aid for injuries, wounds, and minor emergencies.
• Understand how to handle common medical situations like choking and allergic reactions.

Teamwork and Crisis Management:

• Explore the critical role of teamwork in managing medical emergencies.
• Participate in simulated scenarios to practice coordinated response efforts.

Safety Protocols and Infection Control:

• Learn about safety protocols to protect both patients and staff during emergencies.
• Understand infection control measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Debriefing and Post-Emergency Care:

• Discuss the importance of debriefing after an emergency.
• Learn how to provide support to patients and colleagues following an emergency event.

Legal and Ethical Considerations:

• Understand the legal and ethical aspects of providing care during medical emergencies.
• Discuss issues related to patient confidentiality and consent.

Format

This session includes power point presentations with case studies. The course will be delivered through a combination of in-person and online sessions.
In-person sessions will include hands-on training, simulations, and practical skill assessments.

Lecturers

Aneesah Peersab and Dr Sam Ebvouram