How To Write A SOAP Note

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The key takeaways are that this manual provides guidelines for enlisted medical personnel to utilize the SOAP format and standardize patient care procedures. It allows maximum use of trained enlisted staff under supervision of medical officers.

The purpose of this manual is to develop guidelines for teaching enlisted medical personnel the SOAP format for documenting patient encounters. This will enhance quality of care and allow more effective use of enlisted staff in healthcare delivery.

The general procedures are for patients to check in at the front desk, have their vitals taken and complaints reviewed by qualified staff, and be seen based on arrival time. Staff must be able to recognize patients needing immediate care.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction
A. General Procedures
B. Recording patients identification/admin data
C. Vital Signs
Temperature
Blood Pressure
Respiratory rate
Pulse
D. History of allergy to medications
E. Current medications
F. History of chronic disease or illness
G. Documentation using the SOAP method
Subjective
Objective
Assessment
Plan
H. Ordering laboratory tests
I. Ordering X-ray studies
J. Prescribing and dispensing of medication
K. Profiles, Quarters, and bed rest
L. Referral to supervising medical officer
M. Quality assurance
Guidelines When to Consult a Medical Officer
TABLE of CHIEF COMPLAINTS
ENT COMPLAINTS
Upper respiratory infection (URI)
Sore throat
Allergy/hay fever
Hoarseness
Sinus complaints
Epistaxis (nosebleed)
Ear pain, drainage, sense of fullness
Hearing loss

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13
18
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25
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DERMATOLOGIC COMPLAINTS
Friction blisters
Corns and calluses
Superficial fungal infections
Tinea vesicolor
Acne
Sexually transmitted diseases
Crabs/lice

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40

MINOR TRAUMA
Minor trauma
Shoulder pain
Low back pain
Hip pain
Knee pain
Ankle pain

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49
50
52

MEDICAL COMPLAINTS
Fatigue
Headaches
Chest pain
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea and constipation

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62
64

List of medications

67

Glossary of Terms

73

Medical Abbreviations

81

Anatomy

86

Notes

99

Important Phone Numbers

100

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ENLISTED MEDICAL PERSONNEL


SOAP MANUAL

PURPOSE: To develop guidelines for teaching enlisted medical personnel SOAP


format. This method can only be utilized by medics after they have completed
ADTMC. Medical officers must demonstrate their involvement in the case by
reviewing the chart and counter signing it, or by having the case presented to him by
the medic and annotating his findings.
SCOPE: All healthcare specialist personnel
OBJECTIVES:
1. Permit maximum utilization of enlisted personnel in the health care delivery
system
2. Enhance physical examination skills of enlisted personnel by incorporating basic
and appropriate objective data in to the standard screening process
3. Provide a standard medical reference for enlisted medical personnel in the
Battalion Aid Stations (BAS) as well as the Health and Troop Medical Clinics
(HMC) (TMC)
INTRODUCTION: Patients report to the BAS/TMC with a wide variety of complaints
and symptoms. Many of these complaints can be managed by enlisted medical
personnel. Recognizing that medial skills vary greatly among medical personnel,
this reference manual is designed to allow maximum utilization of highly trained and
experienced enlisted medical personnel and to develop the skills of entry level
personnel. It will also enhance quality assurance by providing guidelines for timely
referrals and consultations with supervising medical officers. This reference manual
provides the means for the medic to become a more valuable member of the health
care delivery team in medical operations, and provides a foundation for building
those physical examination assessment and treatment skills necessary to
CONSERVE THE FIGHTING FORCE during combat operations.

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A. GENERAL PROCEDURES
Patients reporting to the BAS/TMC will follow accepted routine designed to
enhance both the efficiency and quality of medical care. Upon arrival the patient
will proceed to front desk where he will present a valid ID card and sick call slip
(DD 689). The soldier's data will be entered in the sick-call log in accordance
with SOP. The medical record clerk will retrieve the patient's records from the file
room. The patient will be directed to the appropriate waiting or screening area.
Patients will generally be seen in order of arrival. It is extremely important for all
personnel working in the BAS/TMC to be able to recognize those patients who
require immediate care. In such cases the supervising Medical Officer will be
notified immediately. Routine sick-call patients will have their vitals taken and
their complaint(s) reviewed by qualified enlisted medical personnel IAW with
ADTMC. The screener may continue with the patient's interview and follow the
procedures as outlined in this text. Screens must realize their own personal
limitations and seek assistance from the medical officer whenever any doubt
exists. All patients may request to be seen by a medical officer.
B. RECORDING PATIENTS IDENTIFICATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE DATA
The recording of patient identification and administrative data should be
accomplished by the front desk or medical records clerk. Upon retrieval of the
patient's medical record from the file the clerk/screener should ensure that there
is a 5181 in the patient's chart. The clerk must insure that accurate, legible and
complete data is entered. The following entries are mandatory
Patient Identification
Name (LAST, First, MI)
SEX
SSN (complete 9 digits)
Rank
Unit
Unit Phone number

Administrative Data
Date
TMC/BAS
Stamp/Identification
Arrival Time

C. VITAL SIGNS
Vital signs which are accurately obtained and properly recorded are the
foundation of quality medical care. All patients reporting for treatment will have
vital signs taken and recorded in their charts for each visit to a TMC or BAS. It is
generally accepted practice during peak periods of sick-call to assign one medic
to obtain and record designated vital signs. This practice allows for the
centralization of equipment and the efficient use of manpower but may be
Page 4

modified to fit local situations and circumstances.


Vital signs should be recorded in the designated area. Abnormal vital signs
may be the first clue to serious illness or injury. The medic assigned to take vital
signs must be aware of their significance and adhere to the following guidelines.
TEMPERATURE: Temperature should be taken by using a properly cleansed
glass thermometer/disposable probe from an electric thermometer orally or by
using heat sensitive paper thermometers. In young pediatric patients, or
unconscious adult patients a rectal temperature will be necessary. In an alert
patient, a temperature below 96F is probably in error, repeat it. Any
temperature greater that 101F should be brought to a medical officer's attention
immediately.
BLOOD PRESSURE: Routine screening blood pressure will normally be taken
in either arm with the patient sitting and the arm supported by the medic or a
table. Clothing that must be rolled up tightly over the arm to allow access to the
antecubital space may easily produce false readings and should be removed. If
the first measurement is slightly elevated and the patient has just arrived in the
clinic, it is suggested that the measurement be repeated after several minutes of
rest. The second measurement will usually fall within the normal range.
PATIENT WITH BLOOD PRESSURE ABOVE 140/90 REQUIRE REFERRAL
TO A MEDICAL OFFICER
RESPIRATORY RATE: The respiratory rate should be based on counting the
patient's respiration for a full minute and may easily be done while the
temperature is being taken. Respiratory distress in an adult would be a rate
greater that 24 or less than 10 breaths per minute.

PATIENTS WITH ANY RESPIRATORY DISTRESS REQUIRE IMMEDIATE


TO A MEDICAL OFFICER
PULSE: The pulse rate is generally taken by counting the radial artery on the
thumb side of the patient's wrist. Some electronic machines will also count the
pulse while obtaining a blood pressure. A quick check of the patient's pulse
using your hand will easily check for an irregular pulse.
PATIENTS WITH A PULSE RATE GREATER THAN 110 OR LESS THAN 50 OR
WITH AN IRREGULAR PULSE REQUIRE REFERRAL
TO A MEDICAL OFFICER
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D. HISTORY OF ALLERGY TO MEDICATIONS


Proper documentation of a patient's history of an allergy to one or more
medications is a necessity. Every patient reporting for treatment must be questioned
concerning past allergic reactions to medications and the information documented.
A positive history should be annotated by using the phase ALLERGIC TO: followed
by the medication concerned. The entry may be circled to emphasize it. The use of
colored ink is encouraged. A negative history may be indicated by using the
common abbreviation NKA (no known allergies). Failure to adequately establish and
document a history of an allergic condition may result in the patient suffering a
severe allergic reaction or a potentially fatal anaphylactic reaction. Each medic
involved with patient care must be aware of the potential for allergic reactions and
repeatedly check for allergies before administering, prescribing, or dispensing ANY
medication.
E. CURRENT MEDICATIONS
Concurrent use of more than one medication may produce unpleasant and often
dangerous side effects. It is extremely important to establish and document what
medication(s) a patient is currently using. It is best to obtain and document current
medications at the same time as the history of allergies. A proper history of current
medications includes not only prescription drugs such as blood pressure mediations
or antibiotics but must include all over-the-counter type remedies as will. It must
also include the strength and dosage schedule. For example:
HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE 50mg BID or MYLANTA 2Tbl QID or ASA 325mg 2 q48h. Medics unfamiliar with standard pharmacy abbreviations should describe the
dosage and schedule in longhand.
F. HISTORY OF CHRONIC DISEASE OR ILLNESS
The presence of a chronic disease or illness can complicate the assessment and
treatment of even the most routine minor complaints. In general, any patient with a
history of chronic disease or illness should be referred to a medical officer.
G. DOCUMENTATION USING THE SOAP METHOD
The SOAP method is the standard for documentation in medical treatment
records. This reference manual is designed to allow the experienced medic to make
detailed notes using the SOAP method, and will assist the less experienced medic in
making adequate documentation. The SOAP method is also designed to allow easy
reference for follow-up care. This method follows the standard and natural flow of a
patient interview, beginning with the SUBJECTIVE data (S) proceeding to the
OBJECTIVE findings (O), arriving at an ASSESSMENT (A) and formulating a
treatment PLAN (P). Appropriate SOAP notes will adhere to the following
guidelines. Medics will find that each complaint covered by this manual is presented
using the SOAP method.

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SUBJECTIVE: This portion of the note includes all information of a historical


nature; that is, what the patient tells you the trouble is, how long it has been
bothering him, and other important parts of the patient's medical history. It
should be noted that this portion of the patient interview is the most significant
contribution in providing quality patient care. The existence of certain complaints,
circumstances, or methods of injury can often lead the medic to concentrate on a
specific part of the physical examination, and may greatly influence the final
assessment and treatment plan. SOME SUBJECTIVE FINDINGS WILL
REQUIRE THE PATIENT TO BE REFERRED TO A MEDICAL OFFICER. An
appropriate not will contain the following information.
AGE
RACE
SEX
CHIEF COMPLAINT(S)
DURATION OF CHIEF COMPLAINT
CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING ONSET OF CHIEF COMPLAINT
RELEVANT PAST MEDICAL HISTORY (e.g. history of previous injury)
PERTINENT POSITIVES (e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, fever, etc.)
PERTINENT NEGATIVES (e.g. NO vomiting, diarrhea, fever, etc.)
SIGNIFICANT SOCIAL HABITS (e.g. smoking, use of alcohol, etc.)
(NOTE: A history of allergies to medications and use of current medications is
also considered an important part of the SUBJECTIVE note will be documented
as previously discussed and repeated in the SOAP note.
As part of the history interview, it is very important to include social habits.
You should ask about alcohol consumption and document what kind of alcohol,
how much is consumed and when. A smoking history should be documented in
pack years. You can calculate pack years by multiplying the number of cigarette
packs smoked per day times the number of years the patient is smoking. For
example, a 30 year old female smokes 2 packs of cigarettes a day for 20 years,
she would have a 40 pack year smoking history! Patients who chew tobacco
should also have this history documented.
An example of a good subject history for a 21 year old male who injured his right
ankle would be
S 21 y/o male presents c/o of a sprained right ankle x 24 hours.
Patient injured ankle yesterday by stepping into a hole while running
Patient heard a "snap" and can only ambulate with assistance
Patient returned to his barracks hoping to "sleep it off" but decided to
come in after his ankle swelled and turned blue. Soldier has no
previous history of injury to this ankle. The patient denies using
tobacco and drinks a 6 pack of beer on weekends.
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OBJECTIVE: This portion of the note includes all the medic's observations and
physical findings. It may include the results of pertinent laboratory and x-ray
studies. A medical record is a legal document. Good intentions don't make good
medical notes. Remember, if you didn't do it, don't chart it, if it isn't charted then
you did not perform that part of the examination. An appropriate objective note
will demonstrate that the care provider has performed at least those parts of the
physical examination which are relevant to the chief complaint, and should
adhere to the guidelines listed under each complaint in this manual. SOME
OBJECTIVE FINDINGS WILL REQUIRE THE PATIENT TO BE REFERRED TO
A MEDICAL OFFICER. A complete objective note will contain the following
information.
GENERAL APPEARANCE
INDICATIONS OF OBVIOUS DISTRESS
PERTINENT PHYSICAL FINDINGS
RELEVANT LABORATORY RESULTS
RELEVANT X-RAY STUDIES
An example of a good OBJECTIVE note for the physical examination on our
soldier with an ankle injury would be
O Right ankle w/significant swelling over lateral malleolus. Ecchymosis
present. Neuor-vascularly intact distally. Significant pain limits FROM mild to
moderate laxity of the joint. No bony pain. Unable to bear weight. X-rays
show no bony pathology with a good mortise.
ASSESSMENT: This manual will generally provide the medic with the guidance
necessary to reach a reasonable assessment. The assessment should reflect your
findings during the history and your examination. It is assumed that the art of
arriving at more specific diagnoses will develop with experience. SOME
ASSESSMENTS WILL REQUIRE A REFERRAL TO A MEDICAL OFFICER.
An example of ASSESSMENT using our patient with the ankle injury would be:
A Grade II right ankle sprain
PLAN: This portion of the note includes all medications prescribed, treatments
given, special instructions, diets, physical limitations imposed, disposition, and plans
for follow-up. Immediately following the PLAN should be the care provider's
identification data, to include either stamped or printed the rank, name, MOS, SSN
and signature. MANY PLANS WILL REQUIRE CONSULTATION WITH A MEDICAL
OFFICER.

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An adequate Plan will contain the following information:


Medication (with strength, dosage schedule, and duration)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
DISPOSITION (duty, profile, quarters, referrals)
FOLLOW-UP PLANS
Continuing to use our example of the injured soldier, the PLAN would be:
P

U Splint x 3 days
Ice for 48 hours then alternate ice/heat
Motrin 800mg PO TID PRN
Crutches for 72 hours them increase activity
Profile TL3 for 2 weeks
RTC PRN

H. ORDERING LABORATORY TESTS


In some instances it may be necessary for the care provider to obtain one or
more basic laboratory studies to confirm or rule out a specific assessment. It
should be remembered that the foundation of quality medical care rests on a
complete history and physical exam, and is only supported by laboratory results.
Although the supervising medical officer may wish to make modifications in
accordance with local SOP and circumstances, it is suggested that medics be
limited to independently ordering laboratory studies from the following list and in
accordance with the guidelines set forth in the complaint section of this manual
THROAT CULTURE - to identify bacterial infections
URINALYSIS - to check for UTI, specific gravity, or blood/protein
SKIN SCRAPE (KOH prep)- to identify fungal infections
I. ORDERING X-RAY STUDIES
Unless specifically authorized by the supervising medical officer, medics will not
independently order x-ray studies. If a patient presents with a condition
significant enough to warrant an x-ray, the medic should at a minimum, consult
with the medical officer prior to ordering the study.
An X-ray request should contain the area to be studied, a brief subjective
description of the patient's problem, any pertinent physical findings, and the
purpose of the X-ray (e.g. Routine, R/O Fracture, R/O Foreign body, confirm
diagnosis)

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The more common X-ray request are listed below:


X-Ray Type
Chest X-ray
Abdomen
Hand (does not include wrist)
Knee
Ankle (does not include foot)
Wrist (does not include hand)

Examples
CSR-PA and LAT
KUB upright/flat
Rt Hand, 3 views - isolate 2d finger
Lft Knee - 2 views
Rt ankle - 3 views
Lft wrist - 3 views

J. PRESCRIBING AND DISPENSING OF MEDICATIONS


Medications prescribing and dispensing is done IAW local guidelines. Some
medications as a medic you will come in contact with are listed below:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Antacids (Maalox, Maalox plus)


Antihistamines (25mg Benadryl/Actifed tablets)
Aspirin
Analgesic balm (Ben Gay)
Anesthetic ointment (Nupercainal ointment
Antidandruff shampoo (Sebutone, Coal Tar)
Antifungal foot ointment, powder, or solution (Desenex products, Lotrimin
solution/cream)
8. Antibacteral ointment (Bacitracin)
9. Betadine
10. Calamine lotion
11. Decongestant (Sudafed 30mg)
12. Domeboro's Tablets
13. Expectorants (Robitussin)
14. Gargles (hydrogen peroxide)
15. Hemorrhoidal suppositories (Annusol HC suppositories)
16. Hydrocortisone 1% cream
17. Kaopectate
18. Laxatives (Ducolox Tablets)
19. Nasal Spray Decongestant (Afrin)
20. Stool Softener (Colace)
21. Throat Lozenges (Cepacol)
22. Tincture of Benzoin
23. Tyenol
If at any time you have a question about a medication, always ask a medical officer.

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K. PROFILES, QUARTERS AND BED REST.


Unless specifically authorized by the supervising medical officer and local SOP,
medics are not authorized to issue profiles or quarters/bed rest. This
manual may suggest certain periods of limited physical activity or periods of
quarters but medics will follow SOP and consult with or refer to a medical officer.
Some helpful pints to remember.
1. Profiles should be written in not-medical language and should be specific
concerning physical limitations.
2. Profiles should have a specific expiration date. For example: NO
RUNNING UNTIL 15 APRIL OR QUARTERS FOR 24 HRS THEN
RETURN TO BAS 0630 ON 15 APRIL.
3. Profiles which contain such terms as (X 14 hrs) or (X 3 days) may be
misunderstood particularly if the patient was seen in the afternoon or on a
Friday.
4. The term QUARTERS means restriction and rest in the patients place of
domicile (i.e. barracks, BEQ, BOQ, etc.) and should allow the patient
freedom of movement within his living space. In other words he may be
free to use the day room etc. Patients on QUARTERS may not perform
military duties.
5. The term BED REST means the patient is restricted to his/her bed, with
allowances for necessary travel tot he dining facility and latrine. Patients
on BED REST may not perform any military duties.
6. PATIENTS ILL OR INJURED ENOUGH TO BE PLACED ON BED
REST.QUARTERS REQUIRE DAILY FOLLOW-UP AT THE TMC/BAS.
7. It should be remembered that profiles and duty limitations are only
recommendations issued to commanders by medical authorities.
Commanders may decide that the mission requires the soldier "break" his
profile and the commander takes responsibility for his/her actions.
L. REFERRAL TO SUPERVISING MEDICAL OFFICER
This manual sets forth instances and circumstances where referral to a
medical officer is mandatory. Medics should feel free and comfortable in
seeking guidance from their PA or MD whenever doubt exists. The next
section of this manual contains specific guidelines when to seek Medical
Officer consultation.
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ALL COMPLAINTS OR CONDITIONS NOT COVERED IN THE COMPLAINT


SECTION OF THIS MANUAL REQUIRE CONSULTATION WITH OR
REFERRL TO A MEDICAL OFFICER.
The requirements for referral DO NOT imply that the medic must halt his or
her evaluation of the patient immediately upon encountering a condition for referral.
On the contrary, unless the patient's conditions is emergent (significantly abnormal
vital signs, altered mental status, severe pain or injury, etc) the medic should
continue to fully question and examine the patient to the best of his or her ability.
After completing as much of the assessment as possible the medic should present
all of the findings, including reason for consultation or referral to the supervising
medical officer.
M. QUALITY ASSURANCE
This medic's manual is one of the elements in the overall quality assurance
program. It in no way replaces the obligations and responsibilities that medics
have in following other quality assurance SOP's and directives.

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GUIDELINES TO SEEK MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION


DURING PATIENT TRIAGE
This guidance will serve you well in the BAS, TMC, or in the Emergency Room of a
MEDCEN. Of course, if you ever feel uncomfortable with any patient, obtain Medical
Officer consultation. PATIENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING SIGNS AND
SYMPTOMS SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF A MEDICAL
OFFICER IMMEDIATELY. The broad categories that are discussed are:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.

Vital Signs
Chest Pain
Respiratory Complaints
Increased Blood Pressure
OB/GYN Problems

F. Urinary Complaints
G. Headaches
H. Fever
I. Overdose or Poison Ingestion
J. Trauma
K. Eye Complaints

L. Seizures
M. Bleeding
N. Psychiatric Problems
O. Pediatrics
P. Insect/Snake Bites or Allergic
Reactions
Q. Vomiting
R. Syncope
S. Pain
T. Neurologic
U. Infection

A. Vital Signs
NOTE: The medic should personally recheck abnormal vital signs manually.
(1) Adult:
Heart Rate <50 or > 120 resting or irregular
BP systolic <90 or diastolic >100
Respiratory Rate >24 or < 10
(2) Pediatric:
Less than 5 years: Heart Rate >140 or <80
Greater than 5 years: Heart Rate >120 or <60 or Resp Rate >40
B. Chest Pain
(1) Any chest pain
C. Respiratory Complaints
(1) Any difficulty breathing
D. Increased Blood Pressure (diastolic greater than 100mm Hg)
See A. Vital Signs
Page 13

E. OB/GYN Problems
(1) Imminent delivery or any complaints of labor (or abdominal cramping)
(2) Suspected ectopic pregnancy (pain, vaginal bleeding and know pregnancy)
(3) Any vaginal bleeding
(4) Alleged rape or sexual assault
(5) Pregnancy with blood pressure greater than 140/90 nn Hg or 20 mm rise from
patients baseline or proteinuria with headache or abdominal pain (think of toxemia
of pregnancy)
F. Urinary Complaints
(1) Unable to pass any urine
(2) Suspected renal stone (pain and hematuria)
(3) Toxic patients with UTIs
(4) Any patient with temperature over 101F with pyuria (pus in the urine)
G. Headaches
(1) With meningeal signs or suspected meningitis
(2) With persistent vomiting, fever, photophobia, neck pain with movement
(3) With associated neurologic alteration
(4) Associated with recent trauma
(5) In patients who relate abrupt onset of the most intense headache theyve ever
had or in patients with history of migraine headaches who have new type of severe
headache.
(6) Associated with diastolic blood pressure greater than 110 mm HG
(7) Associated with significant vision disturbances (decreased visual acuity greater
than 1 line from other eye or prior exam)
(8) Associated with syncope
H. Fever
(1) Adults (temperature >102F)
(a) In any suspected IV drug abuser
(b) Associated with threat to airway
(c) Associated with meningeal signs
(d) Associated with altered mental status
(2) Children (older than 24 months) who appear toxic at any temperature or with
temperature greater than 102F
(3) Toddler or infants (between 3 months to 24 months): a temperature (rectal)
greater than or equal to 101F or 39.5C OR if the patient appears toxic at any
temperature
(4) Neonates (less than 12 weeks) With temperatures greater than 100.4F (rectal)
or less than 96.5F (rectal)

Page 14

I. Overdose or Poison Ingestion


Anyone with suspected poison ingestion or overdose
J. Trauma
(1) Lacerations less than 24 hours old or facial lacerations of any duration which
may result in significant disfigurement.
(2) Trauma less than 24 hours old
(3) Closed head trauma with neurologic changes or in a child under 2 years old
(4) Trauma with associated chest pain or shortness of breath
(5) Trauma associated with hematuria
(6) Assault within 24 hours (except sexual assault- consult every time)
(7) All animal or human bites (For insect bites see P: Insect/Spider/Snake Bites or
Allergic Reactions)
(8) Closed adult extremity injuries, less than 24 hours old with accompanying X-rays
(where indicated)
(9) Pediatric (younger than 12 years old) extremity injuries less than 48 hours old
with accompanying X-rays (where indicated)
(10) Major mechanism of injury (motor vehicle accident, low altitude entanglement,
etc.)
K. Eye Complaints
(1) Abrupt loss or significant decrease of vision (greater than 1 line change visual
acuity)
(2) Associated amaurosis fugax (transient loss of vision in one eye), burst of floaters,
abrupt flashes of light, halos, or waving curtains
(3) Eye trauma or foreign body embedded in cornea
(4) Eye pain around globe or socket (not irritation)
(5) Chemical injury (battery acid, etc.)
(6) Diplopia (new onset in less than 48 hours)
(7) Facial herpes or varicella zoster with eye or nose tip involvement
(8) High speed foreign body injury (from lawnmower, table saw, etc.)
L. Seizures
(1) Actively seizing
(2) Seizure within 2 hours
(3) New onset seizure
(4) Change in normal seizure pattern
(5) Altered mental status

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M. Bleeding
(1) Suspected posterior epistaxis (bleeding in the back of the nose)
(2) Epistaxis uncontrolled by 10 minutes of medically supervised nasal pressure (i.e.
bleeding does not stop during appropriately applied nasal pressure)
(3) Henatochezia (bloody stools) melena (dark, tarry stools), or history of same
(4) Hematemesis (vomiting blood)
(5) Anticoagulated patients with bleeding
(6) Any vaginal bleeding. See item E. OB/GYN Problems
N. Psychiatric Problems
(1) Patients who pose a threat to themselves or others
(2) Psychotic or delusional patients
(3) All paranoid schizophrenics with active symptoms
(4) Alcohol detoxification requests
O. Pediatrics
(1) Any toxic or lethargic child
(2) Fever - see item H. Fever
(3) Head injury in a two year old or younger or any age with neurological deficits
(4) Children with respiratory distress or wheezing
(5) Any child with recent viral illness and a single episode of vomiting, who behaves
unusually
(6) With cyanosis
(7) Child less than 5 years who is unable to use an extremity
(8) Suspected Child Abuse and/or Neglect (SCAN)
(9) Vomiting in first 8 weeks of lift (not regurgitating)
P. Insect/Spider/Snake Bites or Allergic Reactions
(1) Any bite within 4 hours
(2) or swelling above next major joint on extremity wounds
(3) or shortness of breath or wheezing
(4) or chest injuries
(5) or sense of swelling in throat
(6) or associated with generalized rash
(7) or with intense pain, as in black widow spider bites
(8) or history of allergic response to similar bite/sting
(9) With petechiae
(10) Suspected loxosceles envenomation (bite from Brown Recluse spider)
(11) All snake bites

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Q. Vomiting
(1) With associated loss of consciousness
(2) Hematemesis (vomiting blood)
(3) With associated head injury
(4) With systolic blood pressure less than 90 mm Hg
(5) With associated visual complaints
(6) With acute or surgical abdomen
(7) With orthostatic signs and/or symptoms
(8) With associated orthostatic pulse increase of greater than 20 or systolic blood
pressure drop greater than 10 mm Hg with ortostatic symptoms
(9) Suspected drug toxicity
(10) In cancer patients
(11) With associated altered mental status
R. Syncope
(1) In all patients without obvious vasovagal (e.g. needle stick) cause
(2) With associated trauma (either before or after)
(3) Secondary to heat injury
(4) With positive tilts (defined in Q. Vomiting (8)) or symptoms
S. Pain
(1) Any patient complaining of severe or significant pain
(2) Abdominal pain associated with mass especially if it is aulsatile
(3) Eye pain (not irritation)
(4) Suspected deep vein thrombosis
T. Neurologic
(1) Suspected current or recent TIA (transient ischemic attack) or Stroke
(2) Altered mental status
(3) Any paralysis
U. Infection
(1) Abscesses with fever or malaise/weakness especially in immunocompromised
patient (HIV, cancer, diabetic, or steroids, splenectomized, etc.)
(2) Peri-rectal abscess
(3) Pilonidal cyst

Page 17

Table of Chief Complaints


The following table is organized into sections with individual complaints grouped
under the section heading to which they are most related.

Page 18

ENT COMPLAINTS
Upper respiratory infection (URI)
Sore throat
Allergy/hay fever
Hoarseness
Sinus complaints
Epistaxis (nosebleed)
Ear pain, drainage, sense of fullness
Hearing loss

19
20
22
23
25
27
28
30

DERMATOLOGIC COMPLAINTS
Friction blisters
Corns and calluses
Superficial fungal infections
Tinea versicolor
Acne
Sexually transmitted diseases
Crabs/lice

31
32
34
35
36
38
40

MINOR TRAUMA
Minor Trauma
Shoulder pain
Low back pain
Hip pain
Knee pain
Ankle sprains

42
45
47
49
50
52

MEDICAL COMPLAINTS
Fatigue
Headaches
Chest pain
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea and constipation

54
56
58
60
62
64

UPPER RESPIRATORY INFECTION (URI)


Acute infection of the upper airway is characterized by a cough which may be either
productive or non-productive. Sputum may be mucoid or purulent. There may be a
low grade fever. Rhonchi or wheezing may be heard.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Cough (productive or non-productive)
b. Feeling of stuffiness in ears
c. Stiff neck
d. Hoarseness/Sore throat
e. Sore throat
f. Runny nose
g. Increased lacrimation
h. Chest pain during cough or during inspiration
i. Duration of symptoms
j. Smoking history
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Neck (supple, presence of pain when touching chin to chest)
b. Eyes (conjunctival injection, photophobia)
c. Tympanic membranes (appearance)
d. Nasal discharge (mucoid, purulent)
e. Oropharynx (injected, tonsillar enlargement, exudates)
f. Cervical adenopathy
g. Chest (rhonchi, wheezing)
3. ASSESSMENT Based on examination
4. PLAN Most uncomplicated URIs can be managed with decongestants,
antitussives for moderate to severe cough, and ASA or acetaminophen for
elevated temperature or sore throat.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICTED WHEN:
a. Temperature greater that 100F
b. Pain when touching chin to chest
c. Purulent sputum, dark sputum
d. Hoarseness for 1 week
e. Eardrum bulging
f. Tonsils grossly swollen, necrotic, or heavily exudative
g. Difficulty in swallowing
h. Symptoms present greater than 1 week
i. If the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case
Page 19

SORE THROAT
Patients may present with the complaint of sore throat only. The examination should
include the following:
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Duration of symptoms
b. Difficulty swallowing or breathing
c. Inability to fully open mouth
d. Drooling
e. Smoking habits
f. Fever
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Neck supple
b. Elevated temperature
c. Oropharynx (injected edematous)
d. Lesions of oral mucosa
e. Tonsillar enlargement/exudate
f. Cervical adenopathy
g. Abdominal tenderness (splenomegaly) highly suspicious of mononucleosis
3. ASSESSMENT
a. No significant positive findings- presumptive viral or irritative pharyngitis
(i.e. heavy smoker)
b. Oropharynx injected tonsillar enlargement exudate -presumptive beta
hermolytic Streptococcal (BHS) pharyngitis. Must also have a fever
greater that 100F with tender cervical adenopathy. Rule out
mononucleosis if there is also abdominal discomfort.
4. PLAN
a. Presumptive ivral or irritative pharyngitis may be managed by having
the patient discontinue smoking, use warm saline or hydrogen peroxide
gargles and throat lozenges.
b. Presumptive BHS pharyngitis does not need to be confirmed by throat
culture if a fever, exudative tonsilities, and tender cervical adenopathy are
present. It may be treated with penicillin, or erythromycin if a penicillin
allergy exists. Medical officer consultation/referral is required
c. In certain cases mononucleosis must also be ruled out. A CBC with
differential is indicated, atypical lymphocytes noted suggest
mononucleosis. A mono spot should also be ordered. A positive reaction
is confirmation but a negative reaction does not exclude mononucleosis.
Page 20

SORE THROAT continued


5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Pain when touching chin to chest or complaint of a stiff neck
b. Temperature greater than 100F
c. Difficulty swallowing or breathing
d. Inability to fully open mouth or drooling
e. Tonsillar enlargement to midline and/or heavy exudate
f. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 21

ALLERGIES AND HAY FEVER


Patients with allergies often have family history of multiple allergic disorders
including hay fever, asthma, and eczema.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset and duration of symptoms
b. Previous occurrences (symptoms related to seasonal changes. Etc)
c. Known allergies, exposure to know allergies
d. Sneezing
e. Runny stuffy nose
f. Eye irritation
g. Shortness of breath, wheezing
h. Current/previous medications
i. Family history of allergic conditions
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Temperature
b. Conjunctival injection lacrimation
c. Nasal discharge, pale, boggy, edematous nasal turbinate
d. Wheezing, increased rate of respirations, stridor
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Allergic conjunctivitis. Conjunctiva injected with increased lacrimation,
itching and sneezing.
b. Allergic rhinitis. Non purulent nasal discharge with associated sneezing.
c. Hay fever. Eye and nasal signed present with occasional wheezing.
Allergies during spring is usually due to tree pollens, during the summer to
grass pollens, and during the fall to weed pollens, but fungus spores may
also cause hay fever symptoms.
4. PLAN The best treatment is identification and avoidance of the offending
allergen, but the systemic effects can be treated symptomatically with
antihistamines. If eye irritation is significant, add Visine. If nasal congestion is
severe, nasal spray or drops containing ne0-synephrine may also be used for
period not to exceed three days.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Pain when touching chin to chest
b. Fever greater that 100F
c. Purulent nasal discharge
d. Shortness of breath, stridor
e. When simple antihistamines have not been effective
f. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case
Page 22

HOARSENESS
The most common cause of hoarseness is acute laryngitis resulting from a viral
infection. Other causes include bacterial infections, excessive use of the voice,
allergic reactions and inhalation of irritating substances.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset/precipitating factors
b. Duration
c. Associated symptoms (e.g., sore throat, cough, runny nose, muscle
aches, hay fever)
d. Pain with swallowing (dysphagia)
e. Smoking history
f. Contact with irritating substances
g. Fever history
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Hoarse voice (aphonia)
b. Temperature elevation
c. Dyspena
d. Drooling
e. Posterior oropharynx
f. Throat culture results
g. Cervical adenopathy
3. ASSESSMENT Based on subjective and objective findings. The key is to identify
treatable causes.
4. Plan
a. Viral laryngitis is self-limited and no specific treatment is indicated.
Some symptomatic relief may be gained with warm normal saline or
hydrogen peroxide gargles or throat lozenges. Cepacol gargles or
Chloraspectic may also be of benefit.
b. Bacterial laryngitis is rare, but is more frequently seen in children than
adults, and is treated with appropriate antibiotics
c. Avoidance of irritating inhaled substances (tobacco smoke) should be
stressed in those cases where this is the cause of the laryngitis.
d. All patients with laryngitis should have voice rest and be advised to stop
smoking, if applicable.
e. Chronic hoarseness may be due to dysfunction of the vocal cords from
tumor growth or neurologic deficit, and needs specialty care.
Page 23

HOARSENESS continued
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Pain with swallowing
b. Temperature greater than 100F
c. Stiff neck
d. Dyspnea, drooling
e. Positive culture for pathologic bacterial agent
f. Symptoms present over 10 days
g. When the medic is in doubt or is uncomfortable with the case

Page 24

SINUS COMPLAINTS
The patient who presents with the complaint of sinusitis may or may not have true
sinusitis. Most, in fact, do not. Sinusitis is an infection of the frontal, maxillary,
ethmoid or sphenoid sinuses. The most common pathogens are Staphylococcus,
Streptococcus, pneumococci and Haemophilus influenzae. Acute sinusitis may
follow URI, dental abscess or nasal allergy.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. URI complaints (nasal discharge, post-nasal drip)
b. Recent dental problems
c. Nasal allergy
d. Headache (location, radiation, relieving or aggravating factors)
e. Facial pain
f. Duration of symptoms
g. Feeling of nasal obstruction
h. Prior Hx of sinus infection
i. Fever history
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Fever
b. Purulent nasal discharge
c. Tenderness to percussion or palpation over frontal and/or maxillary
sinuses
d. Injected oropharynx without tonsillar enlargement or exadate
e. Appearance of nasal mucosa
f. Cough (productive or non-productive)
g. Cervical adenopathy
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Boggy, hyperemic nasal mucosa is consistent with allergic rhinitis, the
most common cause of sinus complaints. See discussion on
ALLERGY/HAY FEVER
b. Tenderness to percussion over frontal and/or maxillary sinuses is
consistent with acute sinusitis
c. Chronic sinusitis may have minimal findings such as a nasal discharge.

Page 25

SINUS COMPLAINTS continued


4. PLAN
a. Allergic rhinitis is best treated by avoidance of offending allergen.
Decongestants and antihistamines are of some benefit
b. Acute or chronic sinusitis will require antibiotics. Analgesics,
decongestants and topical nasal decongestants are also used. A Medical
Officer consultation is required.
c. It the ethmoid, sphenoid, or frontal sinuses are involved, the patient is
usually referred to the ENT service
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Temperature greater than 100F
b. Retro-orbital headache
c. Purulent nasal discharge
d. Pain when touching chin to chest
e. Tenderness to percussion over maxillary and/or frontal sinuses
f. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 26

EPISTAXIS (NOSEBLEED)
The most common sites of nasal bleeding are the mucosal vessels over the
cartilaginous nasal septum and the anterior tip of the inferior turbinate. Bleeding is
usually caused by external trauma, nose picking, nasal infection, from plucking nose
hairs, by vigorous nose blowing or drying of the nasal mucosa.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Nasal infection
b. Trauma
c. Exposure to drying factors, i.e. sleeping in closed room with forced air
heating system
d. Duration of symptoms
e. Pain
f. Vigorous nose blowing
g. Previous nose bleeds
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Deformity of nose from trauma
b. Location of bleeding site
3. ASSESSMENT Most cases of epistaxis are uncomplicated. If the problem is
recurrent or chronic, other causes must be investigated.
4. PLAN
a. Most cases can be treated easily be having the patient sit up and lean
forward. Tip the head downward and pinch the nose for 5-10 minutes. If
this does not control the bleeding, then cauterization may be required. A
cold pack to the area may also slow the bleeding.
b. To prevent recurrence when the cause is dry nasal mucosa, the patient is
given Bacitracin ointment or NoseBetter Nasal spray (available over the
counter in most drug stores) to use as a protective coating for the nasal
mucosa
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. History of significant trauma
b. Pain
c. B/P with systolic greater that 140 and diastolic greater than 90
d. Pulse greater than 100
e. Temperature greater than 100F
f. When pressure does not control bleeding
g. Recurrent bleeding episodes
h. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case
Page 27

EAR PAIN, DRAINAGE, SENSE OF FULLNESS


Ear pain may be caused by an infection of the external canal, middle ear infection or
eustachian tube dysfunction. It may be accompanied by tinnitus or decreased
hearing.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Pain in affected ear
b. Associated URI symptoms
c. Decreased hearing
d. Trauma
e. Drainage
f. Fever history
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Movement of pinna causes pain
b. Tympanic membrane dull, retracted, hyperemic, buldging
c. External canal abraded, inflamed
d. Temperature greater than 100F
e. Cervical adenopathy
f. Perforation
g. Unable to see tympanic membrane due to cerumen
h. Valsalva maneuver or pneumatic otoscopy
3. ASSESSMENT
a. External canal abraded, inflamed, movement of pinna causes pain, is
consistent with external Otitis.
b. Dull, retracted drum is consistent with eustachian tube dysfunction.
c. Hyperemic, bulging tympanic membrane is consistent with acute Otitis
media.
d. A dull tympanic membrane behind which a fluid level with occasional air
bubbles can be seen is consistent with serous Otitis media.
e. Ear pain and decreased hearing can result from hard impacted cerumen.
In this case the tympanic membrane cannot be seen due to obstruction.

Page 28

EAR PAIN, DRAINAGE, SENSE OF FULLNESS continued


4. PLAN
a. External otitis is usually quite adequately treated with Domeboro otic
solution. Occasionally an antibiotic-steroid combination may be required.
In this case medical officer consultation is required.
b. Eustachian tube dysfunction is treated with decongestants and having
the patient perform Valsalva maneuvers periodically.
c. Acute otitis media usually requires antibiotics, therefore medical officer
consultation, is required.
d. Serous otitis media is treated in the same manner as eustachian tube
dysfunction
e. A perforation of the tympanic membrane requires medical officer referral
f. Impacted cerumen can be removed by irrigation or Debrox solution.
Curetting should only be done by the medical officer. Prior to irrigation,
Cerumenex or Derbox should be placed in the affected ear and allowed to
soften the cerumen for approximately 15 minutes. Prior to irrigation
make sure there is no perforation.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. History of trauma
b. Temperature greater than 100F
c. Perforation
d. Hyperemic, bulging tympanic membrane
e. When the medic is in doubt or is uncomfortable with the case.

Page 29

HEARING LOSS
When a patient complains of hearing loss, the following examination should be done.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset
b. Trauma
c. Noise exposure
d. URI symptoms
e. Ear pain
f. Affected ear(s)
g. Current medications
h. Fever history
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. URI signs
b. Perforation
c. Otitis media
d. Cerumen obstruction
e. Audiometry screen
3. ASSESSMENT If an obvious cause of hearing loss is not found, neurosensory
hearing loss must be considered.
4. PLAN Hearing losses with no apparent cause must be referred to the medical
officer for further evaluation. Other causes which are found on examination are
treated as appropriate.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Audiogram shows a 10 dB loss at any frequency not previously
documented
b. NO apparent cause for the hearing loss is found
c. Temperature greater than 100F
d. Inflamed, bulging eardrum
e. Perforation
f. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 30

FRICTION BLISTERS
A blister will present as a bulla which may or may not be intact. Blisters are caused
by mechanical friction. Blisters on the feet are usually a result of poorly fitted
footwear.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. General (location, onset, duration)
b. Pain
c. Activity limitations
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Appearance of lesions (location, solitary, multiple, intact, weeping)
b. Signs or infection (warmth, erythema, pus)
c. Observe gait (able to bear weight) if blisters are on feet.
3. ASSESSMENT Based on observation
4. PLAN
a. Intact bullae are aspirated with a sterile needle and syringe after cleaning
the area with Betadine. The skin is not debrided. The area is painted with
sterile tincture of benzoin twice. A dry dressing is applied. Soft shoes or
duty limitations are not usually necessary, but may be indicated for 24
hours if the patient has difficulty bearing weight or walking.
b. Bullae which are broken are cleaned with Betadine. The skin is
preserved and the area painted with sterile tincture of benzoin and a dry
dressing applied. Soft shoes or duty limitations are not usually necessary,
but may be indicated for 24 hours if the patient has difficulty bearing
weight or walking.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Extensive bullae formation
b. Moderate to severe pain
c. Infection
d. When medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 31

CORN AND CALLUSES


Corns and calluses develop in response to abnormal pressures against the skin of
the foot. External pressure due to improper shoe wear and/or internal pressure from
abnormal bony protuberances will frequently lead to the production of thickened,
painful hard skin over the bony prominence. In areas where moisture and
perspiration collect, the skin becomes macerated and a soft corn develops.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Location
b. Duration
c. Pain
d. Aggravating factors
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Appearance
b. Inspection of foot gear
c. Signs of inflammation/infection
d. Pain with direct or with lateral pressure
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Callus formation normally occurs over weight bearing surfaces and
consists of thickening, tender, hard skin. Margins often blend into the
surround skin
b. Hard corns are usually found on the dorsal lateral aspect of the PIP joint
of the 5th toe. They are painful with direct pressure
c. Soft corns are most common in the 4th inter digital space
d. Plantar warts may be confused with calluses or corns. They generally
have a central punctate area with surrounding thicken skin. Plantar warts
are painful with lateral pressure and have punctate bleeding points when
shaved.
4. PLAN
a. Removal of the external pressure is essential. Doughnut pads are
helpful in blocking direct contact and reducing pressure on the corn or
callus.
b. Warm, soapy-water soaks, followed by salicylic and plaster or cream
application will help eliminate the corn or callus
c. Corns and calluses may be treated by the patient using commercially
available pumice stone.
d. Corns and calluses may be shaved in thin layers using a scalpel ( a
number 10 blade) to reduce discomfort.
Page 32

CORNS AND CALLUSES continued


5. MEDICAL OFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. There is acute pain with weight bearing
b. Inflammation or infection present
c. Punctate bleeding points exposed when callus is trimmed
d. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 33

SUPERFICIAL FUNGAL INFECTIONS


Multiple forms of superficial fungal infections are found among soldiers. They
commonly include infections of the feet, groin, and occasionally the smooth skin
(ring worm)
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Location
b. Duration
c. Puritis
d. Spread
e. Aggravating factors
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Distribution
b. Describe lesions (scaly, raised margins, erythematous)
c. Superinfection with bacteria from excoriation
d. Adenopathy
e. Weeping
f. KOH prep results
3. ASSESSMENT
In all cases of suspected fungal infection, a KOH prep is mandatory. A positive KOH
is diagnostic, however a negative KOH does not exclude a fungal infection.
4. PLAN
a. Fungal infections of the feet, groin, and smooth skin may be treated
with Mycelex or Lotrimin
b. Infections of the nails and hair require oral medication. Topical
preparations are ineffective in the treatment of fungal infections of the nails
or hair.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED WHEN:
a. Significant adenopathy
b. Pain
c. Involvement of nails or hair
d. Infection is deep, rather that superficial
e. Lesions appear secondarily-infected
f. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 34

TINEA VERSICOLOR

A superficial fungal infection most prominent on the upper trunk and arms, nonpuritic in most cases. Characterized by hypopigmented, minimally-scaling areas, it
is more common during hot, humid weather and often recurs from year to year.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset
b. Duration
c. Relationship to sun exposure
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Distribution
b. Lesions
c. KOH prep
3. ASSESSMENT
T versicolor is based on hypopigmented, confluent, macular lesions. KOH may be
positive, with a spaghetti and meatballs appearance
4. PLAN T versicolor is treated with an oral antifungal agent called Ketoconazole
(Nizoral) which requires a prescription from a medical officer. After a course o f
Nizoral is completed, the soldier is usually instructed to bathe with selsum blue once
monthly
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED WHEN:
a. For a prescription for the antifungal agent
b. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 35

ACNE
Acne is a very common skin condition of adolescents and young adults. It is a result
of hormonal influences increasing the activity of the oil glands. In women acne may
be worse during the menstrual cycle.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Age at onset
b. Previous treatment
c. Relationship to menstrual cycle in women
d. Cammo face paint, oily hair preparations and cosmetics
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Distribution
b. Comedones (black heads)
c. Papulopustular lesions
d. Cystic lesions
e. Scaring
3. ASSESSMENT
Acne may be graded as follows:
a. Grade I is usually limited to the facial area and is characterized by
comedones and few papular lesions. Scarring is not present
b. Grade II consists of comedones, moderate amount of inflamed papules,
and occasional scarring
c. Grade III has the lesions described above plus pustules; papulopustular
formation is moderate and scarring is seen
d. Grade IV is the most severe form. In addition to the lesions above, cystic
lesions are present. Scarring may be severe
4. PLAN
a. Grade I may be treated with topical preparations containing benzoyl
peroxide, and/or with Retin-A
b. Grade II/III are treated with these topical agents but tetracycline PO is
added
c. Grade IV will require referral to a dermatologist for more intensive therapy.
d. All patients must be instructed to avoid picking or squeezing lesions, avoid
use of oily cosmetics, and practice meticulous cleansing of the face and
affected areas.

Page 36

ACNE continued
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION INDICATED WHEN:
a. Patient has Grade II/III acne (antibiotics will be required)
b. Patient has Grade IV acne (a referral to dermatology will be required)
c. When the medic is in doubt or is uncomfortable with the case

Page 37

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES


Male patients will frequently complain of a burning on urination, a penile discharge
and/or penile lesions. They may describe their problems as clap, drip or track.
Regardless of the slang expression used, medical personnel should approach the
problem as being significant and in a serious and professional manner. See
Crabs/Lice as a cross reference.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Penile discharge
b. Burning on urination (dysuria)
c. Fever or chills
d. Abdominal or flank pain
e. Frequency or urgency of urination
f. Genital lesions, description, associated pain
g. History of previous sexually transmitted diseases (STD)
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs
b. Inspect genitals for lesions, describe how they look, location
c. Urinalysis if associated with urinary complaint
d. Blood sample for VDRL
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Gonorrhea (GC) usually presents as a thick penile discharge with dysuria
3 to 7 days after last sexual contact
b. Nonspecific urethritis (NSU) usually presents as a thinner penile
discharge with dysuria, 4 to 14 days after last sexual contact
c. Herpes, venereal warts, chancroid, and syphillis all generally present
initially with genital lesions
d. Do not overlook the fact that a patient may have more than one type of
STD at the same time. In fact, GC and NSU frequently occur together or with
another type of STD
e. Urinary tract infection (UTI) Frequency, urgency, and dysuria
accompanied by a low-grade fever suggests and uncomplicated UTI. This is
rare in healthy males, however, it should be rued out be a urinalysis
4. PLAN Refer to the EDC clinic

Page 38

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES continued


5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Female patient
b. Genital lesions
c. Fever greater than 100F
d. Abdominal or flank pain
e. Patients who return as repeated or questionable treatment failures
f. When the medic is in doubt or is uncomfortable with the case

Page 39

CRABS/LICE
The crab louse is a tiny insect which lives only on humans, almost exclusively on the
moist, hairy areas of the body - the groin and axillae. Sexual contacts accounts for
99% of the transmission. Shared towels, lines, or underwear may rarely transmit the
louse. Lice die rapidly when removed from their human host; they do not hind in the
latrines or jump from bunk to bunk. They may be seen with the naked eye on skin or
hair and appear above the size of a pinhead. Because their life cycle takes 2 to 3
weeks, it may take as long as 4 to 6 weeks before the crab population is large
enough for the patient to notice the infestation. Use SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED
DISEASES as a cross-reference
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Mild to moderate pubic or penianal itching
b. Crabs noted by patient
c. Rash
d. Last sexual contact (LSC)
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Insects on skin or hair
b. Egg cases (nits) attached to hair
c. Above confirmed under microscope, if necessary
d. Mild erythema of skin around insect (bite marks)
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Crabs (pubic lice) Consistent with the above symptoms and signs.
Vigorous scratching may result in secondary infection
b. Scabies This is an infestation by the scabies mite, which is smaller than
the crab louse and burrows into the skin. Scabies is not limited to the
pubic region but spreads everywhere except the scapl, causing a very
itchy rash.
4. PLAN
a. Crabs. Apply a lindane cream or lotion (such as Kwell) from the umbilicus
to the knees, as well as to the armpits, if those are involved. This should
be left on for 8-12 hours, then washed off. RID may be used as an
alternate to Kwell. Very hairy individuals may have to apply these from the
neck down. A repeat application in 1 week is recommended
b. Scabies. Apply a lindane cream or lotion (such as Kwell) from the neck
down, including the arms, for 8-12 hours, then wash off. Repeat
application is usually not necessary
c. Patient must be cautioned to follow instructions carefully to avoid lindane
skin reactions.
Page 40

CRABS/LICE continued
PLAN continued
d. All bedding and clothing to be used within the next 30 days must be
washed thoroughly in hot, soapy water or dry cleaned. It hot water
is unavailable, a disinfectant may be added to the wash.
Laundering of clothes is to be done during the 12 hour treatment
period.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Suspected scabies
b. Secondary infection
c. When the medic is in doubt or is uncomfortable with the case

Page 41

MINOR TRAUMA
Minor trauma is a very broad topic, the detailed discussion of which is beyond the
scope of this manual. Most minor trauma is self-limited and treatment largely
designed to alleviate pain and protect the patient from further injury. The medic
must take caution, however, to rule out more significant injuries, such as a fracture,
which might be hidden. Blunt trauma to the chest, abdomen, back, most burns, and
significant head injuries always require consultation/referral with a medical officer.
The related discussions on joint pain should be used as cross-reference
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Type of trauma (blunt, stretching, compressing, lacerating, penetrating,
burn)
b. Location(s) of injury
c. Where, when, and how injury occurred
d. Associated bleeding, loss of consciousness (LOC), nausea and vomiting
e. Present pain (severity, location, quality, radiation)
f. History of prior trauma to same area
g. Last tetanus shot (date)
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs). A complete exam of the injured
area(s) should be done. If a joint has been injured, always exam the joint above
and below the injured joint.
a. Vital signs
b. Describe size and appearance of wounds
c. Swelling, ecchymosis, deformity
d. Active bleeding
e. Tenderness to palpation, bony point tenderness
f. Pain with voluntary/involuntary motion
g. Signs of infection (redness, pus)
h. Distal neurovascular exam (sensation, pulse, capillary refill)

Page 42

MINOR TRAUMA continued


3. ASSESSMENT
a. Soft tissue injury/contusion. Usually results from blunt or compressing
force. Swelling, ecchymosis, tenderness may be present. No bony point
tenderness
b. Superficial laceration. Usually results from sharp trauma. Minimal
swelling or tenderness. A laceration is superficial if it does not penetrate
below the dermis. An avulsion is an injury where some of the tissue has
been torn away
c. Penetrating wound. Usually results from sharp, penetrating injury. Care
must be taken to rule out (R/O) any foreign body (FB) remaining in the
wound
d. Abrasion. Superficial scraping or removal of outer layers of skin; minimal
bleeding
e. 1st degree burn. Redness, pain, possibly minimal swelling without blister
formation. Almost all sunburns are 1st degree burns
f. Sprain/strain (Grade I). Usually results from stretching, twisting, forces
across a joint or muscle. There is mild swelling, tenderness, and limitation
of motion. See the individual discussions on shoulder, knee and ankle
pain.
g. Possible fracture. Fractures may occur with any type of traumatic force.
Usually have significant swelling, bony pint tenderness, and limitation of
motion. X-ray required.
h. Do not overlook the fact that a patient may have more than one type
of injury at the same time e.g. contusions, abrasions, and a fracture.
4. PLAN
a. Soft tissue injuries are treated with cold compresses, rest, and elevation
for 24-48 hours; use warm compresses to reduce any swelling thereafter.
An ace wrap may occasionally be of benefit for pressure and protection.
Aspirin, Tylenol or Motrin (consult required) are given to relieve pain.
b. Superficial lacerations require thorough irrigation of the wound and
cleansing of the surrounding skin using aseptic technique. Gaping
lacerations greater than 1 cm in length require referral for possible
suturing. Smaller gaping lacerations may be closed with steri-strips and
dressed.
c. Penetrating wounds. Wounds must be thoroughly irrigated and
examined to R/O any foreign body (X-ray may be required). Clean wound
using an angiocathether connected to normal saline under pressure. Place
the catheter into the wound to clean. Do not be timid. If necessary, local
anesthetic may be used. HOWEVER, be sure the neurological
examination is documented before using a local anesthetic. Tetanus
and antibiotics prophylaxis are sometimes indicated.
Page 43

MINOR TRAUMA continued


PLAN continued
d. Abrasions must be thoroughly cleansed using aseptic technique and
dressed. Care must be taken to remove all dirt from the wound.
e. 1st degree burns are treated with immediate cold, moist saline ice
compresses to decrease pain and cool the skin. The area(s) should them
be gently cleansed and rinsed with saline. Dressings are usually not
necessary. Emollients maybe used to relieve dryness during healing.
ASA and Tylenol often are sufficient analgesics, but codeine may be
needed for extensive burns.
f. Grade I Sprains/strains are treated like soft tissue injuries. The affected
joint/muscle should be immobilized with an ace wrap or sling, as
appropriate, and crutches may be needed for lower extremity injuries.
Temporary limitations are often indicted.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. There is blunt trauma to abdomen, chest, or back
b. History of LOC, nausea or vomiting
c. Facial, hand, deep, or avulsion-type lacerations
d. Penetrating wounds to chest, abdomen, or when FBs are possible
e. Burns other than 1st degree or extensive 1st degree (over 20% of body
surface)
f. Significant swelling, ecchymosis
g. Bony point tenderness (possible fracture)
h. Deformity or severe limitation of motion
i. Distal neurovascular abnormality
j. Signs of infection present
k. Human or animal bites
l. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 44

SHOULDER PAIN
A frequent complaint among soldiers is shoulder pain usually following strenuous
physical activity. The causes of non-traumatic shoulder pain are limited but there
are multiple conditions of traumatic origin, both acute and chronic. Some of the
most common causes are listed here.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset and duration of pain
b. Exact location and radiation
c. What relieves, what makes it worse
d. History of activity or trauma
e. Prior episodes
f. Functional limitations
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Erythema, hot shoulder
b. Deformity
c. Effusion, pain to palpation (location)
d. Active and passive ROM; crepitus
e. Strength
f. X-ray results, if indicated
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Rotator cuff tear. Usually presents with shoulder pain/tenderness, a
history of trauma, and patient is unable to abduct the arm or hold it
abducted against gravity
b. Acute bursitis. Usually produces pain with movement and follows
overuse in most instances. Most frequently tender to palpation over
subdeltoid bursa.
c. Calcific tendonitis. The shoulder may appear swollen and inflamed, and
the pain may be severe. X-ray often shows ectopic calcifications.
d. Septic arthritis. Should be considered if the patient has a fever or other
signs and symptoms of inflammation.
e. Dislocation. Usually follows a history of trauma but may occur
spontaneously in some people. Sudden onset of pain with gross deformity
of shoulder joint and severe limitation of motion. X-ray should be done to
R/O associated fracture if a history of trauma.
f. Referred pain. Shoulder pain may occur with abdominal
(subdiaphragmatic) or chest disease/injuries. In these cases the pain is
often unrelated to a Hx of shoulder trauma or to shoulder motion, and there
are usually abdominal or chest symptoms.
Page 45

SHOULDER PAIN continued


4. PLAN
a. Rotator cuff tear is treated initially with a shoulder sling and oral antiinflammatory drugs (ASA, Motrin). Many traumatic tears in young patients
are significant and may require surgical intervention. Consequently, F/U
with orthopedics is indicated in any patient who does not show significant
improvement in pain and increased ROM within 72 hours. Those with
improvement should begin a program of ROM and strengthening
exercises.
b. Acute bursitis/tendonitis is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and
progressive shoulder exercises. There should be a reduction of certain
physical activities including lifting, pushups and pulling for 7 days.
c. Calcific tendonitis is treated like acute bursitis but stronger antiinflammatory drugs may be required for severe pain.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. The patient has a swollen shoulder
b. Hot shoulder/fever
c. Severe pain or decreased ROM
d. Deformity of shoulder (possible dislocation)
e. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 46

LOW BACK PAIN


Low back pain (LBP) is the leading "occupational" complaint in the U.S. Common
causes of LBP include unaccustomed physical activity, acute strain, positional
changes, and in some cases, the cause is never determined. Most LBP is due to
muscle strain but a herniated intervertebral disc must always be ruled out.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history of the same complaint)
a. General (location, onset, duration, nature and intensity of pain)
b. Radiation (does pain shoot down leg (sciatica), and how far)
c. Aggravating/relieving factors
d. Weakness in legs
e. Bowel/ladder dysfunction
f. History of direct trauma to back
g. Prior episodes of similar pain and prior evaluation
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Observe difficulty dressing/undressing
b. Alignment, lordotic curve
c. Palpation of spinous processes and paraspinal musculature contovertebral
d. Range of motion (flexion, extension, lateral bending, rotation). Measure
distance of finger tips to floor during flexion
e. Gait
f. Heel/toe walk
g. Deep tendon reflexes at knees, ankles (decreased, normal)
h. Straight leg raising (SLR)
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Lumbosacaral strain (mild to moderate). Usually have reduced range
of motion, discomfort which is localized to the lumbar-sacral area, and
palpable muscle tenderness/spasm. Inability to heel-toe walk may be
based on increased pain rather than nerve involvement. A SLRs that
localizes the pain to the lumbosacaral area without radiation is considered
a negative SLR.
b. Nerve root involvement. Disc involvement or sciatica usually has
unilaterally decreased tendon reflexes, foot drop, radiation of pain to the
posterior thigh(s), and pain with extension or Valsalva maneuver. Rectal
exam may show reduced sphincter tone (this is a medical emergency) SLR
will be positive for reproducing pain which shoots down the leg.

Page 47

LOW BACK PAIN continued


4. PAIN
a. Lumbosacral strain usually can be adequately managed by decreasing
activity and ice massages. Medications, if required, usually consist of antiinflammatory drugs and/or muscle relaxants.
b. Involvement other than mild strains will usually require more extensive
management and a referral is necessary
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. There is a history of direct trauma to back
b. Radiating pain which "shoots" down the leg
c. Marked loss of range of motion
d. Severe pain, CVA tenderness, or spinous process tenderness
e. Straight leg raise positive
f. Bowel or bladder dysfunction
g. Foot or unilateral decrease in tendon reflexes
h. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 48

HIP PAIN
Traumatic hip pain in young adults usually follows overuse (i.e. sports, running, or
other strenuous physical activity. Hip fractures or dislocations in young adults with
normal bones occur with high energy trauma and are usually associated with other
severe injuries.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Character of pain
b. Onset/activity
c. History of trauma or arthritis
d. Involvement of other joints
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Palpable tenderness (exact location)
b. ROM and associated pain
c. Gait
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Trochanteric bursitis. Usually presents with local pain over the greater
trochanter with radiation down the lateral aspect of the thigh to the knee.
Palpable tenderness is present. Internal rotation and abduction also
causes pain.
b. Tendonitis. Any of the muscles or tendons surrounding the hip joint may
become strained and inflamed. Pain localized to affected part on
palpation, aggravated with motion.
c. Slipped femoral epiphysis. A limp with hip pain develops. Usually seen
in young males who are obese or tall and thin, and rarely occurs over age
20. X-ray confirms diagnosis.
4. PLAN
a. Bursitis/tendonitis. Treatment consists of anti-inflammatory drugs, warm
compresses, and reduction of aggravating factors until pain free.
b. A slipped epiphysis will require an orthopedic consult.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Inability to bear weight
b. Decreased ROM
c. Evidence of infection
d. Crepitus present in joint with motion
e. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 49

KNEE PAIN
Most unilateral knee pain is traumatic in origin. Acute trauma usually causes
ligament sprains/strains or meniscal damage. Repeated mild trauma over long
periods of time can lead to chondromalacia, chronic arthritis or other problems.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. History of "locking" or "giving way"
b. History of trauma
c. Prior knee surgery
d. Precipitating factors
e. Aggravating factors; deep knee bends, stair climbing
f. Pain without weight-bearing
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Discoloration (ecchymosis, erythema), swelling, deformity
b. Effusion, crepitus
c. Tenderness to palpation over joint line
d. Warm to touch
e. Tenderness over medial/lateral collateral ligaments or menisci
f. Patellar shift; tenderness with patellar compression
g. Ligamentous instability with lateral/medial stress (lateral/medial collateral
ligaments)
h. Drawer and Lachmann's sign (cruciate tear)
i. McMurray's sign; Apley's sign (meniscal damage)
j. Quadriceps symmetry (measured in centimeters)
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Hot, tender knee with or without swelling may indicate intraarticular
infection
b. Inability to fully extend knee and joint line tenderness may indicate
meniscal injury
c. Tenderness over MCL/LCL without laxity may indicate grade I sprain or
strain
d. If mild laxity and tenderness of MCL/LCL is present, possible grade II
sprain
e. If ecchymosis, effusion present with laxity, possible grade III sprain (torn
ligament)
f. Positive drawer sign, positive Lachmann's sign, probable cruciate injury

Page 50

KNEE PAIN continued


ASSESMENT continued
g. Patellar shift present, possible patellar subluxation
h. Asymmetry of quadriceps positive subpatellar crepitus, pain while climbing
stairs, is possible chondromalacia
4. PLAN
a. For Grade I sprains. Initial treatment consists of ice packs, ace wrap and
elevation for the first 24 hours. Crutches may be indicated for comfort.
Anti-inflammatory agents are used as required. Contusion without
additional findings may also be treated with the above plan.
b. Chondromalacia, or retropatellar pain symdrome, is treated with
quadriceps strengthening exercises, avoiding deep knee bending, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Motrin, Indocin)
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Unable to bear weight
b. Unable to fully extend leg
c. History of "locking or giving way"
d. Significant trauma
e. Knee is warm, discolored or deformed
f. Effusion greater than one inch
g. Ligamentous instability
h. Positive drawer, Lachmann's or McMurray's sign
i. When symptoms persist more than 3 weeks
j. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 51

ANKLE SPRAIN
Ankle sprains are common in the active duty population due to the increased level of
physical activity. Ankle sprains can be grouped as Grade I simple sprains, or as
Grade II or Grade III sprains which are significant. Fractures are frequently
associated with significant sprains.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Mechanism of injury, position of foot at time of injury (inverted, supinated)
b. Time of occurrence
c. Past trauma
d. Pain - discomfort
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Inability to bear weight
b. Swelling (edema)
c. Ecchymosis
d. Localization of tenderness, pain (medial or lateral maleolus, anterior joint
margin)
e. Range of motion, passive and active
f. Stability, drawer sign
g. Distal neurovascular exam (sensation, pulses, capillary refill)
h. X-ray results, if indicated
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Grade I sprain. Antalgic gait. Able to bear weight, minimal if any edema,
no ecchymosis, mild tenderness of either malleolar area, no drawer sign,
neurocascular status and ROM intact.
b. Grade II sprain. Unable to bear weight - edema, possible ecchymosis,
acute tenderness, no drawer sign, neurovascular status intact. ROM
reduced. An X-ray should be done to R/O an associated fracture.
c. Grade III sprain. Unable to bear weight - edema, ecchymosis present,
acute tenderness, positive drawer sign. ROM markedly decreased,
instability present, neurovascular status may be compromised. An X-ray
is necessary to R/O an associated fracture.

Page 52

ANKLE SPRAIN continued


4. PLAN
a. Grade I sprains are initially treated with ice, compression, and elevation
for 24-48 hours. Crutches are indicated for up to 48 hours in Grade I
sprains. Anti-inflammatory agents (Motrin) and ace wrap protection are
indicated for 5-7 days, with gradually increased exercise
b. Grade II sprains may require posterior or "U" splinting for 3-5 days with
ice, elevation, crutches and analgesics (Motrin). An ace wrap is indicated
with gradual increase of activity after 72 to 96 hours.
c. Grade III sprains is a significant injury and will require immobilization
using either a splint or non-weight bearing cast. Initially, ice, compression,
and elevation are used to reduce edema and pain. Crutches, without
weight bearing, and F/U with podiatry or orthopedics is usually indicated.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with a mild narcotic will often be
needed for pain relief.
d. In all sprains, physical activity must be reduced appropriately and will vary
in length from 72 hours to several weeks
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Unable to bear weight
b. Ecchymosis present
c. Severe pain
d. Loss of ROM
e. Instability (positive drawer sign)
f. When the medic is in doubt of uncomfortable with the case

Page 53

FATIGUE
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms for which adult patients seek medical
attention. It may be described as a general tiredness, lack of energy, weariness, or
a subjective sense of weakness, and is often accompanied by a strong desire to
sleep. Fatigue is normal when it is the result of a full day's work or sustained
physical activity. Chronic fatigue, however, is not normal. The medic's objective is
to separate those normal individuals from those with significant anxiety, depression
or organic illness.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. General (onset, duration, character of fatigue)
b. Associated fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, headache, sore throat,
muscle aches, or joint pains
c. Sleep patterns (insomnia, early awakening)
d. Anxiety (current stressful situations)
e. Depression (feeling blue, loss of interest)
f. Medications (sedatives, antihistamines, antidepressants)
g. Living conditions - what is used for heat (woodburning, coal, gas, etc.)
h. Do other people in the household have the same complaint
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs
b. Appearance of patient (sick, tired, depressed)
c. Pale skin, nail beds, or mucosae
d. HEENT exam (erythema of the throat)
e. Lynphadenopathy (swollen, lender lymph nodes)
f. Lungs (rales, wheezes)
g. Heart (irregular rhythm, murmur, gallop, or rub)
h. Abdomen (masses, tenderness)
i. Hematocrit test results, if indicated
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Normal tiredness. History of sustained hard work or physical activity
without anxiety, depression, or trouble sleeping. Normal exam.
b. Anxiety state. History of recent stressful situations, difficulty sleeping;
fatigue lessens during day, mild headache may be present. Patient may
appear anxious, exam is otherwise normal.
c. Dysthmia. No set pattern but usually accompanied by difficulty sleeping.
Patient may appear depressed, physical exam otherwise normal.

Page 54

FATIGUE continued
ASSESSMENT continued
d. Mononucleosis. Mild sore throat, fever, fatigue relieved by rest. Exam
reveals pharyngitis, cervical adenopathy. Positive mono spot test.
e. Anemia. Patient usually c/o lack of energy with physical activity, relieved
by rest. Exam reveals pale nail beds, skin, or mucosae, increased pulse.
Anemia is seen with a hematocrit less that 43% in males, 38% in females.
f. Chronic illness. Fatigued relieved by rest or decreased activity, muscle
aches or joint pains, low grade fever, weight loss may also be present.
Exam may reveal lymphadenopathy, cardiac, lung, or abdominal
abnormalities.
g. Carbon monoxide poisoning. Usually a normal exam, may see pale or
bluish hue to nails. Will generally have a history of wood/oil/coal burning
stove in a trailer with other people in the household having the same
complaint
4. PLAN
a. Patients with normal fatigue need reassurance that there is no evidence
of underlying disease, and should be counseled to make maximum use of
the sleeping time available to them.
b. Those with mild situational anxiety or dysthymia may only require
reassurance that there is no evidence of underlying organic disease and
that their symptoms are situational in origin. They should be instructed to
return for F/U if there is no improvement within 72 hours.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Fever greater than 100F
b. Pulse greater than 100 bpm at rest
c. Worsening symptoms over two weeks
d. History of greater than 5 lb weight loss in past month
e. Marked anxiety or depression
f. Inability to sleep
g. Pale nail beds, skin, or mucosae
h. Adenopathy other than mild cervical adenopathy
i. Persistent joint or extremity pain
j. Abnormal lung, cardiac, or abdominal exam
k. Hematocrit below 42% in males, 38% in females
l. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 55

HEADACHES
The majority of headaches are easily managed with simple medications. The onset
of most headaches tends to be associated with stress, hangovers, or heat. The vast
majority of these are "muscle tension" headaches. Vascular (migraine type)
headaches and headaches associated with febrile viral illnesses are also common in
young adults.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset (gradual, sudden, awakens from sleep)
b. Duration of the headache, are they recurrent
c. Location and character (unilateral, occipital, throbbing, band-like)
d. Associated fever, LOC, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, eye pain, visual
changes, malaise.
e. Aggravating, mitigating factors
f. Trauma within 72 hours
g. Past treatment or evaluation
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs, especially temperature and blood pressure
b. Able to touch chin to chest without pain
c. HEENT exam (evidence of trauma, pupil size and reaction to light, sinus
tenderness, tympanic membranes)
d. URI signs
e. Mental status (alert, oriented, drowsy, confused)
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Simple headache usually has no specific physical findings
b. Musculoskeletal headache. Usually presents with "squeezing band"
encircling the head, and tightness of the neck muscles. It is usually
bilateral and may continue for days.
c. Migraine headaches are characterized by unilateral throbbing pain.
There is usually nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and photophobia.
Migraines generally have a history of recurrence.
d. Pain with the chin to chest maneuver along with fever suggest possibility
of meningitis. Suspected meningitis is always an emergency.

Page 56

HEADACHES continued
4. PLAN
a. Simple headaches are treated with analgesics, including Tylenol or
aspirin
b. Musculoskeletal headaches can also be treated with analgesics, but
moderate to severe headaches may require muscle relaxants.
c. Migraine headaches will require specific anti-migraine medications and
probably temporary duty limitations.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Headaches associated with trauma, LOC, nausea and vomiting, or visual
disturbances
b. Increased blood pressure, temperature greater than 100F
c. Inability to touch chin to chest without pain
d. Moderate to severe musculoskeletal headaches
e. Migraine-type headaches
f. Inability to perform duty
g. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 57

CHEST PAIN
Chest pain offers a diagnostic challenge to the medic as well as to the PA or
physician. Most chest pain among healthy soldiers is non-cardiac in origin, but
care must be taken to rule out heart disease in every case. Gastrointestinal,
pulmonary, musculoskeletal, neurological and psychogenic problems can cause
chest pain. The best way to differentiate these non-cardiac from cardiac problems is
to obtain a good history. A description of the pain is extremely important.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. Onset of pan
b. Precipitating factor(s) of pain
c. Duration of pain
d. Predictable relief of pain
e. Location of pain
f. Quality of pain
g. Pain intensity changing with respiration
h. Previous episodes of pain
i. Previous heart disease
j. Nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, shortness of breath (SOB)
k. Fainting spells
l. Trauma to chest wall
m. Cough, fever
n. Family history of heart disease
o. Cardiac risk factors (smoker, hypertension, cholesterolemia, diabetes,
sedentary lifestyle, abnormal ECG)
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Elevated B/P
b. Pulse rate - tachycardic or irregular pulse
c. Tenderness with palpation over area of chest pain
d. Cyanosis
e. Wheezing, rales
f. Cardiac or pulmonary friction rub on inspiration
g. Abnormal heart sounds
h. Levine's sign (clutching fist to chest)

Page 58

CHEST PAIN continued


3. ASSESSMENT
The main objective is to separate non-cardiac from cardiac pain.
a. Cardiac pain, caused by insufficient blood tot he heart muscle (ischemia),
is called angina.
b. If the history reveals that the pain is induced by bending forward, touching
the chest wall, breathing, positioning of the body or arms, then it is highly
unlikely that the pain is of cardiac origin.
c. Also, if the pain lasts only a second or is constant over hours or days, then
the pain is not due to angina.
d. If the pain is brought on immediately while lying down, again the pain is
not due to angina.
e. Tenderness to palpation of chest wall or pain in chest wall with twisting of
the upper body with otherwise negative findings indicates
musculoskeletal pain (costochondriasis).
f. Chest wall pain in large-breasted women may be due to inadequate breast
support during exercise
4. PLAN. Except in those instances where chest wall pain can be determined to be
the cause, chest pain should be evaluated by a PA or physician. For
chest wall pain, anti-inflammatory analgesics such as aspirin or Motrin
(consult required) should be provided.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. For all chest pain other than chest wall tenderness.
b. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case.

Page 59

NAUSEA AND VOMITING


Nausea and vomiting are common, related complaints, and while the most common
causes in a young adult are mild and self-limited illness, there are many serious
considerations which must be ruled out. Such a large list is beyond the scope of this
manual. The medic must, however, take a thorough history and make referrals as
appropriate. The discussion on ABDOMINAL PAIN AND HEADACHE should be
used as cross-reference.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. General (onset, frequency, duration, amount vomited)
b. Appearance of vomitus (bloody, coffee ground, bilious)
c. Associated fever, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache,
dizziness, or malaise
d. Recent appetite
e. Jaundice, dark urine, light stools
f. Medications, alcohol ingestion
g. Dietary range, recent food history
h. Pregnancy, Last menstrual period (LMP)
i. Anxiety, stress
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs, including postural B/P (tilts) and pulse
b. Sclera icterus, jaundice, appearance of mucus membranes
c. Signs of viral URI on HEENT exam
d. Appearance of abdomen (flat, protuberant, distended)
e. Bowel sounds (normal, increased, decreased)
f. Tenderness on abdominal palpation
g. Guarding or rebound tenderness on palpation
h. Guaiac results on any vomitus (if available) or stool
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Acute gastroenteritis. Nausea and vomiting, frequently accompanied by
diarrhea, malaise, and mild fever; occasionally with URI symptoms. Active
bowel sounds and little, if any abdominal tenderness
b. Food poisoning. Similar to gastroenteritis. More often rapid or sudden
onset, with diarrhea following. Clusters of cases with similar food history
seen.
c. Following alcohol, drugs. Many chemicals and drugs may cause
nausea and vomiting. The exam is usually normal
d. Early pregnancy. LMP greater than 6 weeks ago. Symptoms often
worse in morning. Confirm with pregnancy test
Page 60

NAUSEA AND VOMITING continued


ASSESSMENT continued
e. Migraine headache. Headache is usually the major complaint but nausea
and vomiting may precede a severe headache
f. Acute hepatitis. History similar to gastroenteritis; light stools, dark urine,
or jaundice. RUQ tenderness and liver enlargement often present'
g. Abdominal emergency. Severe abdominal pain, high fever, bloody
vomitus or bloody stools
h. Anxiety/Stress related. Clear history relating nausea and vomiting to
anxiety or stressful event(s). Normal exam
4. PLAN
a. Acute gastroenteritis is usually self-limited. Treat with a clear liquid diet,
rest, and Tylenol. If patient cannot hold down fluids, then a Phenergan
25mg IV or PR, or Compazine 5mg IV or PR, may be given (requires
consult) Kaopectate or Donnagel may be used for diarrhea
b. Food poisoning. Same treatment as for gastroenteritis. Report clusters
of cases to preventive medicine.
c. Following alcohol, drugs. Self-limited, if noxious agent is avoided;
withholding the offending medication or referral for special counseling may
be required. Dramamine may be of benefit to alleviate symptoms.
d. Early pregnancy. It is best not to give any medications. Symptoms can
be minimized by eating several small meals and avoiding high-fat foods.
e. Anxiety/stress related. Reassure patient that no serious organic disease
is present. Discuss ways to avoid or alleviate stress; special counseling
may be required
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Bloody vomitus or coffee ground appearance
b. Bloody, tarry stools
c. Fever greater than 100F
d. Jaundice, icterus
e. Severe headache or dizziness
f. Postural vital signs (blood pressure drops more than 10mm HG systolic,
pulse rises greater than 20 beats/min, after standing)
g. Abdominal distention
h. Moderate or severe abdominal tenderness
i. Positive guaiac
j. History of vomiting or persistent vomiting for greater than 24 hours
k. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 61

ABDOMINAL PAIN
Abdominal pain is a common complaint, and while the most common causes in
young adults are mild and self-limited, there are many serious considerations which
must be ruled out. Such a large list is beyond the scope of this manual. The medic
must, however, take a thorough history, and make referrals as appropriate. See the
discussions on NAUSEA AND VOMITING and DIARRHEA AND CONSTIPATION
as a cross-reference.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. General (quality, location, onset, duration, radiation of pain)
b. Aggravating or mitigating factors
c. Associated fever, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, chest pain or
back pain
d. History of trauma
e. Appetite and last meal
f. Medications, alcohol ingestion
g. Past treatment or evaluation
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs, including postural B/P and pulse
b. Sclera icterus, jaundice (appearance of mucus membranes)
c. Listen to lungs and heart (abnormal sounds)
d. Appearance of abdomen (flat, protuberant, distended)
e. Bowel sounds (normal, increased, or decreased)
f. Tenderness, masses on abdominal palpation
g. Guarding or rebound tenderness
h. Psoas or obdurator signs
i. Costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness
j. Hernia (males)
k. Guaiac (+) stool, any pain during rectal examination
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Acute gastroenteritis. Pain usually mild, cramps, poorly-localized, with
nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. See discussion on NAUSEA and
VOMITING
b. Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Mild epigastric,
substernal buring sensation, usually after meals, relieved by antacids
c. Pain from abdominal muscle stress. Excessive coughing or vomiting
causing diffuse abdominal wall discomfort. Afebrile, may have minimal
diffuse guarding
d. Hepatitis. Malaise, nausea, RUD pain and tenderness, jaundice, dark
urine.
Page 62

ABDOMINAL PAIN continued


ASSESSMENT continued
e. Abdominal emergency. Severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, bloody
stools, high fever, rigid abdomen, positive heel tap, inability to stand or sit
straight without pain.
f. Appendicitis. Gradual onset of diffuse pain with migrates to RLQ. Fever
usually less than 101F initially, RLA and LLQ rebound tenderness
(Rovsings sign) psoas and obductor signs are positive if a retrocecal
appendix. Elevated WBC.
g. Peptic ulcer. Burning, gnawing epigastric pain, often episodic 1-4 hours
after meals. Relieved by food or antacids. Deep epigastric tenderness.
h. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Progressive lower abdominal pain,
cramping, fever in females. Aderexal tenderness on pelvic examination
(Do not perform this exam unless under the direct supervision of a
medical officer).
4. PLAN
a. Acute gastroenteritis is usually self-limited. Treat with clear liquid diet,
rest. Tylenol, Kaopectate or Donnagel may be given for diarrhea.
b. Heartburn usually responds well to antacids such as Gavison or Mylanta.
Recurring episodes may indicate underlying ulcer or reflux.
c. Pain from abdominal stress. Reassure patient that there is no evidence
of serious organic disease. Tylenol, antacids, and rest help pain.
5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATION IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. severe or recurrent abdominal pain
b. Severe nausea or vomiting
c. Bloody, coffee ground vomitus
d. Bloody, tarry stools
e. Fever greater than 100F
f. Jaundice, icterus
g. Postural vital signs (B/P drops more than 10mm HG systolic, pulse rises
greater than 20 beats/min, after standing)
h. Abdominal distention
i. Absence of bowel sounds
j. Moderate to severe tenderness or masses on palpation
k. Guarding or rebound tenderness
l. CVA tenderness
m. Hernia
n. Positive guaiac
o. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case
Page 63

DIARRHEA AND/OR CONSTIPATION


Diarrhea and constipation are symptoms whose causes are usually acute and selflimited. In all cases it is important to obtain a detailed description of the patients
symptoms. Acute diarrhea implies frequent, watery bowel movements, not just
loose stools. A dietary history can usually explain must cases of constipation and
loose stools in young adults. The discussion on ABDOMINAL PAIN and NAUSEA
AND VOMITING should be used as cross reference.
1. SUBJECTIVE (ask about a previous history for the same complaint)
a. General (onset, frequency, amount, last BM, color, consistency, odor, and
recent changes)
b. Associated abdominal pain, painful BMs, fever, weight loss, flatulence,
anxiety, lack of energy
c. Bloody or tarry (black) stools.
d. Postural hypotension (the feeling like one will faint upon arising suddenly)
e. Current medications (laxatives, antibiotics, codeine, antacids)
f. Appetite, last meal, current fluid consumption
g. Dietary history (dairy or meat products, fruit, fiber)
h. Recent travel to rural arrears, tropics, or third world countries
i. Prior evaluation or treatment
2. OBJECTIVE (always include vital signs)
a. Vital signs, including postural B/P and pulse
b. Document weight (in symptoms chronic)
c. Signs of viral URI on HEENT exam
d. Appearance of abdomen (flat, protuberant, distended)
e. Bowel sounds (normal, increased, decreased)
f. Tenderness on abdominal palpation
g. Guarding or rebound tenderness
h. Guaiac results on any stool and save specimen for possible microscopic
examination for WBCs
3. ASSESSMENT
a. Acute Constipation. Usually situational, secondary to voluntary restraint,
decreased intake, or rectal pain (hemorrhoids)
b. Chronic constipation. Usually due to low fiber, high-fat, highcarbohydrate diet, possible exacerbated by laxative abuse. Flatulence
and mild abdominal pain may also be observed.

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DIARRHEA AND/OR CONSTIPATION continued


ASSESSMENT continued
c. Acute gastroenteritis. Diarrhea will be moderate and with acute onset,
frequently with nausea, vomiting, malaise, and mild fever; occasionally
with URI signs. Active bowel sounds and little, if any, abdominal
tenderness.
d. Food poisoning. Similar to gastroenteritis. Bacterial toxins (e.g. Staph)
often produce sudden onset of nausea and vomiting followed by diarrhea.
Bacterial infections (e.g. Salmonella) usually produces only diarrhea of
sudden onset. Clusters of cases with similar food histories are frequently
seen.
e. Dysentery. Acute to subacute diarrhea with pus, mucus, and blood in
stools, fever, malaise, and abdominal pain are observed. Stool (+) for
many WBCs.
f. Irritable bowel syndrome. Though common, it is a diagnosis made only
when others have been excluded. Chronic, recurrent abdominal discomfort
and flatulence, aggravated by anxiety, and stress, diarrhea often alternate
with constipation. Exam is usually normal.
g. Inflammatory bowel disease. Recurrent diarrhea, often mixed with
blood, and worse at night, mild to moderate abdominal pain with
accompanying weight loss.
4. PLAN
a. Acute constipation responds well to laxatives, such as Milk of Magnesia,
stool softeners (Colace, Surfak) are helpful when painful BM, are part of
the problem. Warm prune juice works wonders in relieving constipation.
Try this first before giving out laxatives.
b. Chronic constipation should be treated with dietary modifications to
increase the amount of fruit and fiber eaten. Bulk-forming agents
(Metamucei) may be helpful, but laxatives are to be avoided.
c. Acute gastroenteritis is usually self-limited. Treat with a clear liquid diet,
rest, and Tylenol. Donnagel may be given for diarrhea.
d. Food poisoning. If mild, treat like gastroenteritis. Report clusters of
cases to Preventive Medicine.
e. Loose stools, without other symptoms may be treated with Kaopectate.
f. Be sure to tell the patient to return for follow up if the diarrhea
persists longer than 48 hours or if he develops a fever.

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DIARRHEA AND/OR CONSTIPATION continued


5. MEDICAL OFFICER CONSULTATIN IS INDICATED WHEN:
a. Severe or recurrent diarrhea
b. Severe or persistent abdominal pain
c. Bloody, tarry stools
d. Diarrhea of more than 48 hours duration
e. Fever greater than 100F
f. Postural vital signs (B/P drops more than 10mm Hg systolic, pulse rises
more than 20 bpm after standing)
g. Abdominal distention
h. Absence of bowel sounds
i. Moderate to severe tenderness or masses on palpation
j. Guarding or rebound tenderness
k. Positive guaiac
l. When the medic is in doubt or uncomfortable with the case

Page 66

LIST OF MEDICATION
The following is a list of medications prescribed in the self-care protocols in this
manual. After each medication, there is brief description of the symptoms that the
drug will treat effectively. In addition, any special patient instructions in the use of
the medication and possible side effects are listed to make the medic aware of
problems that could surface. Any questions regarding these or any other medication
should be referred to the medical officer.
ANALGESIC BALM (Ben Gay) Effective for relief of minor muscle aches.
Side Effects: Possible rash
Special Instructions: None
ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT (Neosporin, Bacitracin) An antibiotic ointment for use
on minor skin sores or lesions to prevent infection.
Side Effect: Localized redness, rash
Special Instructions: Use small amounts 2-5 times daily. If redness or itching occur,
stop use and return for reevaluation.
ANTIFUNGAL AGENTS (Tinactin, Desenex) Available in powder, liquid, or
aerosol, Tinactin is effective in the treatment of many superficial fungal infections of
the skin. Tinactin does not sting; it has been know to causes added irritation in very
few cases.
Side Effects: Localized rash can occur
Special Instructions: If a rash or additional irritation should develop, the patient
should be instructed to discontinue use and return for reevaluation.
ANTIHISTAMINES (Benadryl) Provides relief to the patient suffering from runny
nose or nasal stuffiness resulting from allergies, common cold, or influenza.
Antihistamines also decrease secretions and reduce congestion/inflammation of the
nasal passages
Side Effects: Drowsiness, rash (localized or general), tightness of the chest,
dizziness, headaches.
Special Instructions: If drowsiness should develop, the patient should be instructed
not to drive or work around dangerous machinery while taking the antihistamine.

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ASPIRIN Very effective for relief of minor aches and pains. Aspirin should
not be used by patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic
ulcers.
Side Effects: Skin rash, upset stomach, ringing in the ears if taken in large
doses
Special Instruction: Patients should be instructed to take aspirin either with
meals or with a glass of milk
BETADINE Mild skin cleanser; also provides residual protection against
future bacterial infection
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
BURROWS SOLUTION Solution prepared from either powder or tablets
used as a soothing wet dressing to relieve inflammation of the skin resulting
from insect bites, poison ivy, swelling and athletes foot
Side Effects: Localized rash
Special Instructions: Patient should be instructed to keep solution away from
the eyes. Once in liquid form Burrows solution should be kept at room
temperature for no more than 7 days.
CALAMINE LOTION Used to relieve itching skin resulting from poison ivy
(contact dermatitis) or sunburn.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
CEPACOL LOZENGES Provides soothing relief from throat irritations.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
CHAPSTICK A stick of solidified petroleum jelly effective in providing relief
for dry, chapped, or cracked lips.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
CHLORASEPTIC GARGLE Provides soothing relief from throat irritations.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None

Page 68

COUGH ELIXER Antitussives, expectorants (Robitussin, Novahistime,


Robutussin DM) Provides relief to patient suffering from cough and/or
congestion of the lungs resulting from the common cold or influenza.
Side Effects: Occasional drowsiness
Special Instructions: Do not exceed 2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours for 3 days.
DOMEBORO TABLETS A soothing wet dressing for relief of inflammatory
conditions of the skin, insect bites, poison ivy, swellings and bruise, or
athletes foot.
Side Effects: Localized rash
Special Instructions: Patient should be instructed to keep the solution away
from the eyes
FOOT POWDER/OINTMENT In either form, this compound is effective
against fungal infection of the foot, especially between the toes
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
FOSTEX SOAP An effective cleanser used in the treatment of acne,
dandruff, and other skin conditions characterized by excessive oil production.
Fostex dries the oil thus promoting the removal of the dead layer of skin.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
HEMORRHOIDAL SUPPOSITORIES (PLAIN) provide prompt relief for the
itching and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
Side Effects: Localized irritation in the rectal area
Special Instructions: Suppositories should be used after each bowel
movement. If localized irritation develops, discontinue use and return for
reevaluation and alternate treatment.
HYDROCORTISONE 0.5g CREAM Provides temporary relief from minor
skin irritation, itching, and rashes.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: Avoid contact with eyes. If condition worsens or if
symptoms persist for longer than 7 days, the patient should discontinue use
and return for reevaluation.

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HYDROGEN PEROXIDE solution used as a cleanser for the skin to control


bacterial infection. It may also be used as a gargle (full strength or diluted
with water) for relief of throat discomfort.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: If used as a gargle, patient should brush teeth after
meals before gargling with hydrogen peroxide.
KAOPECTATE Prepared in both powder and liquid form, provides relief for
the patient suffering from diarrhea.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: Patient should return for reevaluation if diarrhea persists
for longer than 48 hours.
LAXATIVES Bulk, fecal softeners, mineral oil used in management of
temporary constipation. Fecal softeners keep stools soft for easy natural
passage.
Side Effects: Laxatives may become habit forming.
Special Instructions: Use of these medications should be infrequent.
NASAL DECONGESTANT (Afrin Spray, Neo-Synephrine, Sudafed Tablets)Provides relief from nasal congestion resulting from seasonal allergies,
inflammation of the sinuses, and congestion associated with the common cold
and influenza. Nasal decongestants constrict the blood vessels of the nasal
passages, which allows the patient to breathe easier.
Side Effects: The patient sensitive to nasal decongestants sprays may
experience a mild stinging sensation which often disappears after the first few
sprays. Certain nasal decongestants tablets may cause nervousness,
dizziness, or sleeplessness.
Special Instructions: Patient should be instructed not to exceed the
prescribed dosage, to follow package directions carefully, and to return if
symptoms become worse or persist for longer than 7 days, or if fever
develops. Continuous use for longer than 3 days should be discouraged.
PEPTO-BISMOL Used in the treatment of indigestion, nausea, or diarrhea.
Side Effects: The medication may cause temporary darkening of the stool
and tongue
Special Instructions: If take with aspirin and ringing of the ears occurs, the
patient should be instructed to discontinue use and return for reevaluation. If
the diarrhea is accompanied by fever or continues for more than 48 hours, the
patient should return for reevaluation

Page 70

SEBUTONE/SEBULEX SHAMPOO Used in the treatment of the scaling


and itching associated with dandruff. These shampoos contain special
cleansers to rid the hair of excess oil in addition to softening the crusty layers
of the scalp.
Side Effect: Localized rash
Special Instructions: Patient should be instructed to avoid contact with the
eyes when using any of these shampoos. If a rash or irritation should
develop or increase, the patient should discontinue use of the product and
return for reevaluation.
STERI-STRIPS- Commercially produced sterile strips used to secure edges
of minor skin lacerations to promote healing.
Side Effects: The patient may be sensitive, particularly to the adhesive on the
steri-strip, and develop a localized irritation of the skin.
Special Instructions: Steri-strips are for use on minor skin lacerations only.
Wounds with edges that cannot be brought in close proximity to one another
are not candidates for steri-strip use. The medic must pull the edges of the
cut together as close as possible, taking care not to overlap the edges. The
patient should be advised to return if any localized redness, irritation, or
swelling develops as this is an indication of infection that requires further
treatment.
TOPICAL ANESTHETICS (Nupercainal Ointment) Provides temporary
relief of pain and itching from hemorrhoids by lubricating dry and inflamed
skin. May also be used for sunburn, minor cuts, and burns.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
VASELINE (WHITE PETROLEUM JELLY) Provides soothing relief to many
types of skin trauma. In addition, petroleum jelly acts as a moisturizer for dry
skin.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None
VISINE EYE DROPS Provide relief for tired and irritated eyes resulting from
dilated blood vessels.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: None

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ZINC OXIDE OINTMENT Provides temporary relief of minor skin irritations


and provides a protective coating for inflamed tissues.
Side Effects: None
Special Instructions: Do not put this medication into the rectum. Do not apply
over puncture wounds, infections, or lacerations. Avoid contact with eyes

Page 72

GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Occasionally the medic may be uncertain of the definition of some of the medical
terms used in this manual. Since medic may not have access to a medical
dictionary, the following glossary of terms is provided.
ABDUCTION - 1. The lateral movement of the limbs away from the median plane of
the body, or the lateral bending of eh heard or trunk. 2. The movement of the digits
away from the axial of a limb. 3. Outward rotation of the eyes.
ACCOMODATION The adjustment of the eye for various distances whereby is
able to focus the image of an object on the retina by changing the curvature of the
lens.
ACNE A common skin condition occurring primarily in the late teens and early
twenties, but many continue into the thirties. Heredity, diet, hygiene, stress, and
general illness can aggravate acne and be extremely upsetting to the young soldier.
Acne is caused by plugged oil glands. The oily material that is secreted develops a
dark color when exposed to air, forming what is knows as a blackhead. These
plugged glands may become inflamed, and pimples develop when bacteria begin
breaking down the oil thereby producing irritating substances as by-products. With
proper treatment acne can be improved, thus avoiding scarring and other life-long
side effects.
ADDUCTION - Movement of a limb or eye toward the median plane of the body, or,
in case of digits, toward axial line of a limb.
ADENOPATHY Enlargement of the glands, especially the lymph glands/nodes
ALIMENTARY CANAL OR TRACT The digestive tube from mouth to anus.
ALOPECIA See Hair Loss
ANOREXIA Loss of appetite
ANTERIOR Before or in front of
ATHLETES FOOT Athletes foot is the result of a fungal infection that usually
starts with scaling and/or fissuring between the toes accompanied by intense itching.
It is not uncommon for the infection to spread to other portions of the foot, especially
around the toenail. The presence of athletes foot fungus can be confirmed by a
potassium hydroxide test.
Page 73

ATROPHY Degeneration, wasting away


BENIGN not malignant, not recurrent, favorable from recovery
BOIL Also known as a furuncle if it has a single core or carbuncle if there are
multiple cores. It is a painful nodule formed in the skin by inflammation enclosed a
core. It is caused by bacteria which generally enter through a follicle. Tenderness,
swelling, and pain are present around the area of redness. Extremely large or
numerous boils can produce fever.
BURN Any localized injury in the outer layer of skin caused by heat and
characterized by redness, pain, and/or blisters. The three degrees of burns are:
First Degree (characterized by redness)
Second Degree (characterized by blistering)
Third Degree (results when the outer layer of skin is destroyed)
CHARCRE The primary sore of syphilis characterized by an elevated painless
ulceration which indicates the point of entry of tile infection.
CONFUSION A disturbance in the patients understanding, and that simple
questions directed to the patient are not understood.
CONJUNCTIVITIS Inflammation of the membrane that lines the eye and eyelids;
also known as pink eye.
CONSTITUTIONAL Affecting the entire body; not local.
CONTACT DERNATITIS (Poison Ivy) results when the skin comes in contact with
anything in the environment that causes an inflammatory reaction in the skin (e.g.
shoe materials, watch-band, earrings, etc.) Poison ivy is the most common cause of
contact dermatitis. The specific cause of the skin reaction in poison ivy is the oil
secreted by the ivy leaves. This oil can be transported directly from the plant to the
skin by way of a persons hand or even inhaled by burning plants. A poison ivy rash
is usually confined to the arms, legs, or face since these body parts readily come in
contact with the plant. Symptoms usually develop within 24-48 hours of contact and
are characterized by itching, redness, minor swelling, and the formation of blisters.
The blisters can break resulting in oozing fluid and a crusted appearance. Contrary
to popular belief, the fluid from broken blisters does not cause more lesions; only the
plaint oil can do that.
CONTRACEPTION The prevention of pregnancy.

Page 74

DANDRUFF- A condition affecting the epidermal (outer) skin layer of the scalp
characterized by itching and scaling of the scalp. More serious cases of dandruff
can affect the facial areas as well
DERMIS see skin
DIARRHEA Loose or liquid bowel movements of abdominal frequency.
DIASTOLIC PRESSURE A measure of the blood pressure during dilation stage of
the heart while it fills with blood; the low point of a blood pressure reading.
DIPLOPIA Seeing two images of a single object; double vision
DORSAL 1. Pertaining to the back. 2. Indicating a position toward a rear part.
Opposed to ventral.
DRUG REACTION (Rash) An acute widespread temporary reddish eruption on
the skin which can develop in individuals sensitive to a particular drug (prescription
or nonprescription). The rash is characterized by itching that can interfere with sleep
or performance of normal duties/activities. The rash results from the enter body
reacting to the drug itself and usually develops early in treatment rather than after
the drug has been taken for a period of time.
DYSMENNORRHEA Painful menstruation
DYSPEPSIA Excessive acidity of the stomach; epigastric discomfort following
meals.
DYSPNEA Air hunger resulting from labored or difficult breathing, sometimes
accompanied by pain. Normal when due to vigorous work or athletic activity.
DYSPHAGIA Difficulty in swallowing
DYSURIA Pain during urination; difficult with urination
EPIDERMIS see Skin
EPISTAXIS Nosebleed (normally resulting from the rupture of the blood vessels
inside the nose)
ESOTROPIA Marked turning inward of the eye; crossed eyes.

Page 75

EUSTACHIAN TUBE Auditory tube, channel extending from the middle ear to the
nasal passages.
EXOTROPIA Abnormal turning of one or both eyes outward.
EXUDATE Material, such as fluid, cells, or cellular debris, which has escaped from
blood vessels and has been deposited in tissues or in tissue surface, usually as the
result of inflammation.
FATIGUE State of increased discomfort and decreased efficiency resulting from
prolonged or excessive exertion.
FISSURE A line-like crack in the skin.
FLATULENCE Excessive gas in the stomach and intestines
FLATUS Gas in the digestive tract. Expelling of gas from any digestive tract..
FROSTBITE The condition that results from the skin being exposed to extremely
cold weather for an extended period of time (usually the toes, fingers, or face are
affected). In severe cases, permanent destruction of tissues may occur from the
crystallization of tissue water in the skin and adjacent tissues.
GASTROENTERITIS Inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
HAIR FOLLICLE see Skin
HAIR LOSS (ALOPECIA)- While most hair loss is natural and hereditary, any hair
loss that is sudden or extreme in nature can result from a severe infection, caustic
chemicals, or drugs. When treated promptly and properly, hair growth can resume.
HEAT INJURY - The result of exposure to excessive temperatures with or without
accompanying strenuous activity. The cause of heat injury is an excessive loss of
water and salt from the body or a breakdown of the bodys cooling mechanism.
HEMATURIA Blood in the urine.
HEMORRHOIDS Expansion of one or more veins in the rectal area resulting from
an increase in venous pressure.
HYP(O) A prefix signifying beneath, under, below normal, or deficient.

Page 76

HYPEREMIA Congestion, an unusual amount of blood in a part.


HYPERMENORRHEA excessive uterine bleeding occurring at regular intervals,
the period of flow being of usual (normal) duration
HYPERTENSION Persistently high blood pressure
HYPERVENTILATION Abnormally prolonged, rapid, and deep breathing causing
an increased, amount of air to enter the lungs resulting in a decrease in the level of
carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolved in the blood.
ICTERIC Pertaining to or affected with jaundice
IMMUNOLOGY Pertaining to that branch of medicine dealing with the response of
the body to the introduction of foreign substance (antigens) such as bacteria,
viruses, and ragweed pollen.
JAUNDICE A syndrome characterized by the deposition of bile pigments in the
skin, mucous membranes, and sclera with resulting yellow appearance of the
patient.
JOCK ITCH (Tinea Cruris) Caused by a fungal infection and aggravated by
sweating, restrictive garments, and a failure or inability to wash and dry carefully on
a daily basis. This type of infection causes intense itching that can be disabling. In
addition to intense itching, red areas with many small blisters and dandruff-like
scales develop on either side of the scrotum. Spread of the infection beyond the
groin area and involvement of the scrotum and/or penis is uncommon. A secondary
bacterial infection can develop which can render the patient seriously ill.
LARYNGITIS Inflammation of the larynx which may be accompanied by throat
dryness, soreness, hoarseness, cough, and/or difficulty in swallowing.
LATERAL - Pertaining to the side, away from the median plane
LESIONS A wound, injury, or pathological alteration of tissue
LIBIDO Sexual drive
MALAISE A vague feeling of body discomfort
MALIGNANT Tending to become progressively worse and to result in death

Page 77

MEDIAL 1. Pertaining to the middle. 2. Nearer the median plane.


MEDIAN PLANE A vertical plane through the trunk and head dividing the body
into right and left halves.
MENINGES The three membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord
MEMOPAUSE Cessation of menstruation in the female, usually occurring between
the ages of 46 to 50.
MEMORRHAGIA Excessive uterine bleeding occurring at the regular intervals of
menstruation, the period of flow being greater than usual duration.
MENSTRUAL PERIOD The cyclic uterine bleeding which normally occurs in
females at approximately 4-week intervals during the reproductive years in the
absence of pregnancy.
METRORRHAGIA Uterine bleeding, usually of normal amount, occurring at
completely irregular intervals, the period of flow sometimes being prolonged.
MIOSIS Contraction of the pupil
MYALGIA Pain in a muscle or muscles
MYDRIASIS Dilatation of the pupil
MYOPIA nearsighted
NAUSEA An unpleasant sensation that one may vomit (sick to the stomach)
NEOPLASM Any new or abnormal growth (tumor). Everyone develops neoplasm
during their lifetime, but most neoplasms are not cancerous.
PAP EXAM A microscopic examination of cells from the vagina and cervix to
detect the presence of cancerous or pre-cancerous conditions
PARENTERAL Denoting any route other than the alimentary canal, such as
intravenous, subsutaneous, intramuscular, or mucosal.
PERI- Prefix meaning around or about
POSTERIOR 1. Toward the rear or caudal end; opposed to anterior. 2. In man,
toward the back; dorsal. 3. Situated behind; coming after.
Page 78

PYURIA Presence of pus in the urine


RETRO Prefix meaning backward
SIGN- Any objective evidence or manifestation of an illness or disordered function
of the body. Signs are more or less definitive and obvious and are not part of the
patients impression (which are symptoms).
SKIN The external covering of the body. The skin consists essentially of two
layers the epidermis and the corium (or dermis). The epidermis is the outmost
layer and forms a protective covering for the body. The corium is below the
epidermis and contains connective tissue, lymphatics, blood vessels, sweat glands,
nerves, and elastic fibers. Appendages of the skin are the hair and nails.
STOMATITIS- Inflammation of the mouth
STRIDOR Harsh sound during respiration; high pitched and resembling the
blowing of wind due to obstruction of air passages
SYMPTOM- Any perceptible change in the body or its function that indicates
disease. Symptoms are considered subjective.
SYSTOLE Pertaining to the contraction, or period of contraction, of the heart
especially that of the ventricles
TACHYCARDIA Heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute
TACHYPNEA Rapid respiration, generally greater than 20 breaths per minute in
adults
TINNITUS A subjective ringing or tinkling sound in the ear
TOXIC Manifesting the symptoms of severe infection (unresponsiveness, ashen
color, febrile)
TRANSUDATE The fluid which passes through a membrane, especially that which
passes through capillary walls. Compared to an exudates, a transudate has fewer
cellular elements and is of a lower gravity.

Page 79

VALSALVAS MANEUVER Attempt to forcibly exhale with the glottis, nose, and
mouth closed. If the Eustachian tubes are not obstructed the pressure on the
tympanic membranes will be increased (bulging outward). It also causes an
increased in intrathoracic pressure, slowing of the pulse, decreased return of blood
to the heart, and increased venous pressure.
VENTRAL Pertaining to the belly. Hence, in quadrupeds, pertaining to the lower
or underneath side of the body; in man, pertaining to the anterior portion or the front
side of the body. Opposite of dorsal
WHEEZE- A whistling or signing sound resulting from narrowing of the lumen of a
respiratory passageway. Often only noted by use of a stethoscope. Occurs in
asthma, croup, hay fever, reactive airway disease.

Page 80

MEDICAL ABBREVIATION
A
A
ante, before
ACTH adrenocorticotropic hormone
AD
auris dexter (right ear)
ADA American Diabetes Association
ADH antidiuretic hormone
ADL activities of daily living
ad lib as desired
AFIP Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
A/G albumin/globulin ratio
AK
above knee
AKA Also Known As; Above Knee
Amputation
AMA against medial advice
AMA American Medical Association
AP/LA anterior, posterior, and lateral
APC aspirin, phenacetin, and caffeine
ASA aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)
AU
both ears
aud auditory
AV
arteriovenous
A/W alive and well
B
BBB bundle branch block
BCP birth control pill
bid
bis in die (twice a day)
BE
barium enema
B/f
black female
BK
below knee
BKA below knee amputation
BM
bowel movement

B/m black male


basal metabolic rate
blood pressure
bathroom privileges
bowel sounds,
blood sugar
BS
breath sounds
BUN blood urea nitrogen
C
c
con, with
CA
carcinoma
CAD coronary artery disease
cap capsule
CBC complete blood count
cc
chief complaint
cc
cubic centimeter
CCU Coronary Care Unit
CHD congestive heart disease
CHF congestive heart failure
CNS central nervous system
co
carbon dioxide
c/o
complains of
CO2 carbon dioxide
COPD chronic obstruction
pulmonary lung disease
cp
cerebral palsy
CPK creatine phosphokinase
CSF cerebrospinal fluid
c&s culture and sensitivity
CVA cebrovascular accident;
costovertebral angle
cvp central venous pressure
D
D&C dilation and curettage
D/C discontinue, discharge
DIP distal interphalangeal joint
disch discharge
BMR
B/P
BRP
BS

Page 81

DNA deoxyribonucleic acid


DOA dead on arrival
D.O.S day of surgery
dp
dorsalis pedis (pulse)
D5W dextrose 5% in water
Dx
diagnosis

g or G gram
GI
gastrointestinal
GTT glucose tolerance test
gtt
guttae (drops)
GU
genitourinary
GYN gynecology

E
ea
E.coli
EDC
EEG
ENT
EKG
ECG
EMG
EOM
ER
ESR

H
HA
headache
Hb.Hgb hemoglobin
Hct
hematocrit
HEENT head, eyes, ears, nose,
throat
HNP herniated nucleus
pulposus
H&P history and physical
HPI history present illness
hs
hora somni (at bedtime)
Hx
history

etiol

each
Escerichia coli
estimated date of confinement
electroenephalogram
ear, nose and throat
electrocardiogram
electocardiogram
electomyogram
external ocular muscles
emergency room
erythrocyte sedimentation
rate
etiology

F
Fb
FB
FBS
FHx
FSH
F/U
FUO
Fx

finger breadth
foreign body
fasting blood sugar
family history
follicle stimulating hormone
follow-up
fever of undetermined origin
fracture

G
GB
GC
GFR
GG

gallbladder
gonococcus
glomerular filtration rate
Gamma globulin

Page 82

I
I131
ICF
ICU
ICS
I&D
Infect
IM
IHN
in situ

radioactive iodine
intracellular fluid
intensive care unit
intercostals space
incision and drainage
Infectious
Intramuscular
isoniazid
in natural or normal position

I&O intake and output


IPPB Intermittent positive pressure
breathing
IUD intrauterine contraceptive
device
IU
international unit
IV
intravenous
IVP intravenous pyelogram

K
K
Kg
KOH
KUB
KVO

potassium (kalium)
kilogram
potassium hydroxide
kidney, ureter, bladder
keep vein open

L
L
lat
LBBB
LCM
LDH
lig
LKS
LMP
LLL
LLQ
LOA
LOC
LOP
LOT
LP
Ls
LSB
Lues
LUL
LUQ
LVH
L&W

left
lateral
left bundle branch block
left costal margin
lactic acid dehydrogenase
ligament
liver, kidney, spleen
last menstrual period
left lower lobe (lung)
left lower quadrant (abdomen)
left occiput anterior
lost of consciousness
left occiput posterior
left occiput temporal
lumbar puncture
lumbosacral
left sternal border
syphilis
left upper lobe
left upper quadrant
Left ventricular hypertrophy
living and well

M
m
MAO
MCA
MCD
MCH

murmur
monoamine osidase
motorcycle accident
minimal cerebral dysfunction
mean corpuscular

MCL
MCV
mEq
mg
MI
ml
MLD
MOM
MSL
MVA

hemoglobin concentration
midcostal line
mean corpuscular volume
milliequivalent
milligram
myocardial infarction
milliliter
minimum lethal dose
milk of magnesia
midsternal line
motor vehicle accident

N
Na
N/A
NB
Neg
NIH
NKA
N2O
NOC
NP

sodium (L. natrium)


not applicable
newborn
negative
National Institute of Health
No Known Allergies
nitrous oxide
at night
neural protamine Hadegom
(insulin)
NPO nothing per os
(nothing by mouth)
NS
normal saline
NSU nonspecific urethritis
NTND nontender nondistended

O
OB
obstetrics
O.D. Oculus dexter (right eye)
od
omni die (every day, daily,
once daily)
oint ointment
OPD outpatient department
OR
operating room
O.S. Oculus sinister (left eye)
OT
occupational therapy

Page 83

O.U. both eyes


OW otherwise

PV
Px

per vagina
Physical examination

P
p
PA

Q
q
qid
qod

every
four times a day
every other day

R
RNA
ROM
ROS
RVH

Ribonucleic acid
range of motion
review of systems
right ventricular hypertrophy

after
Physician Assistant
pernicious anemia
posterioanterior
PABA
oara-aminobenzoic acid
PaCO2
arterial CO2 tension
PAo2 arterial O2 tension
palp palpation
Pap Papanicolaou smear
PAS para-aminosalicylic acid
PAT Paroxysmal atrial tachycardia
PBI protein bound iodine
p.c. after meals
PCO2 CO2 partial pressure
pd
papillary distance
PDA patent ductus arteriovenous
PE
physical examination
PE
pulmonary embolism
perf perforaton
PERLA
pupils equal reactive to light
And accommodation
PH
past history
PI
present illness
PID pelvic inflammatory disease
PIP proximal interphalangeal (joint)
PKU phenylketonuria
PMH past medical history
PMI pont of maximal impulse
PND paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea
p.o. Per os (by mouth)
PR
per retum
PSH Past surgical history
Pt
Patient
PT
Physical Therapy

Page 84

S
s
without
SA node
sino atrial node
S1
first heart sound
SBE subacute bacterial
endocarditis
segs segmented neutrophils
Sed Rate
sedimentation rate
SGOT serum glutamic
oxalocacetic transaminase
SGPT serum glutamic-pyruvic
transaminase
SIB sibling
SIG label, let it be imprinted
SLE systemic lupus
erythematosus
SOB shortness of breath
ss
one-half
SSE soap suds enema
SSKI saturated solution of
potassium iodide
STAT immediately
STS serologic test for syphilis

T
T1
first thoracic vertebra
T&A tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy
TAH total abdominal hysterectomy
TB
tuberculosis
Tbc tuberculosis
TID ter in die (three times a day)
TLC total lung capacity,
Tender Loving Care
TM
tympanic membrane
TMJ tempralmandibular joint
TPR temperature, pulse, respiration
TSH thyroid stimulating hormone
tsp
teaspoon
TU
tuberculin unit
TUR transurethral resection (of prostate)

U
U/A
URI
UTI

urinalysis
upper respiratory infection
urinary tract infection

V
vc
vital capacity
VDRL Venereal Disease
Research Laboratories
V.O. Verbal Order
V.S. Vital sign
VSS vital signs stable
W
WBC White blood count
WDWN
Well developed & well
nourished
W/D well-developed
W/f white female
W/m white male
W/N well-nourished
WNL within normal limits
WT weight
XYZ
Y/O

year old

Page 85

NOTES

Page 86

NOTES

Page 87

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS


NAME

Page 88

PHONE NUMBER

COMMENTS

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