View source for Altered Mental Status (AMS)

== Section 5 -MEDICAL 5.03 ==
=== ALTERED MENTAL STATUS (AMS) ===

'''''AMS is defined as an alteration in either the patient’s LOC or Orientation'''''

[[Initial Medical Assessment and Care|INITIAL MEDICAL CARE]] (2.01) - Provide OXYGEN or assist ventilations as appropriate for patient condition.
* C-spine precautions as indicated.
* Obtain and record blood sugar level.
* Draw blood tubes, if available.
* If hypotensive, refer to [[Shock|SHOCK PRACTICE PARAMETER]] (5.13).
* If blood sugar < 100, [[Antidiabetics|DEXTROSE 50%]] 25 gm IVP. 
**For pediatric patients, refer to Handtevy System
**If blood sugar < 100 and unable to obtain IV access, [[Antidiabetics|GLUCAGON]] 1 mg IM or IN. 
**Refer to [[Hypo or Hyperglycemia|HYPO / HYPERGLYCEMIA PRACTICE PARAMETERS]] (5.10). 
*If no response and a narcotic overdose is suspected:
** An adult patient’s weight is < 50 kg, Titrate [[Antagonists|NALOXONE (NARCAN)]] to effect, not to exceed 6 mg.
** An adult patient’s weight is > 50 kg, Titrate [[Antagonists|NALOXONE (NARCAN)]] to effect, not to exceed 10 mg.
**'''Note: Only administer enough [[Antagonists|NALOXONE (NARCAN)]] to improve respiratory effort if decreased, it is not necessary to reverse the altered mental status. Consider soft restraints for the patient suspected of a narcotic overdose.'''
**'''Refer to Handtevy System for pediatric administration of [[Antagonists|NALOXONE (NARCAN)]].'''

[[Category:Medical|0503]]