Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient becomes dizzy and nearly faints when rising from the dental chair. What is the FIRST action?
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Correct answer: B. Place in Trendelenburg (supine with legs elevated above heart level)
Orthostatic hypotension occurs when blood pools in lower extremities upon standing. First response: Trendelenburg position (supine with legs elevated) to maximize venous return to the heart and increase cerebral perfusion pressure. If this resolves symptoms, no further intervention is typically needed. Simply supine is good; Trendelenburg is the more specific and optimal response.
- A. ❌ Supine is good but Trendelenburg (legs elevated) is more effective for orthostatic hypotension.
- B. ✅ Trendelenburg position — increases venous return and cerebral blood flow; first-line management.
- C. ❌ Glucagon treats hypoglycemia — not the cause of orthostatic hypotension.
- D. ❌ EMS is premature for simple orthostatic hypotension managed successfully with positional change.
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