Handling Medical Emergencies in the Workplace

Physical therapists often work in clinical, outpatient, or corporate settings where medical emergencies can happen. Being prepared to recognize and respond to medical emergencies in the workplace is a very important part of professional practice, both for therapists and patients.

Whether dealing with a sudden fall, cardiac event, or allergic reaction, understanding how to act quickly and effectively helps protect patient safety and supports better outcomes. This article looks at common workplace medical emergencies and practical advice for physical therapists and clinic staff to respond with confidence and composure.

Why emergency preparedness matters in PT settings

While the focus of physical therapy is often on rehabilitation and recovery, emergencies can happen without warning. Having a plan in place and practicing response procedures can lower stress and minimize risks when urgent situations come up.

Key benefits of preparedness

Promotes patient and staff safety. Quick responses to medical emergencies in the workplace can prevent serious complications.
Reduces response time. Clear procedures lead to faster action.
Improves confidence. Staff feel better equipped to handle urgent events.
Supports legal and ethical standards. Following proper protocol ensures responsible care.
Encourages teamwork. When everyone knows their role, coordination improves.

Common medical emergencies in the workplace

Certain types of emergencies are more likely to occur in PT clinics. This is due to the active nature of treatment sessions, pre-existing health conditions, or external factors. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to act are important first steps.

Some common medical emergencies in the workplace include:

Falls and injuries. Patients receiving therapy for balance or mobility issues might be at a higher risk of falling. If a fall were to happen, the physical therapist should:

Check for head injuries, fractures, or dislocations.
Keep the patient calm and provide reassurance.
Activate emergency services if there is loss of consciousness, severe pain, or visible deformity.
Record any environmental factors that may have contributed.

Cardiac events. Sudden cardiac arrest or heart attacks require immediate response. In this case, physical therapists should:

Identify symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness.
Call emergency services right away.
Begin CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available and required.
Continue until help arrives or the patient becomes responsive.

Respiratory distress. Asthma, allergies, or other underlying conditions may cause breathing difficulties. A therapist should:

Recognize wheezing, labored breathing, or cyanosis.
Assist with prescribed inhalers or breathing aids if trained.
Keep the patient calm while waiting for emergency personnel.
Avoid placing the patient flat unless medically indicated.

Seizures. Some patients may have a history of epilepsy or neurological disorders. In this case:

Do not restrain the individual or place anything in their mouth.
Clear the area to prevent injury.
Note the duration of the seizure and monitor breathing afterward.
Contact emergency services if the seizure lasts more than five minutes, they do not breathe for 30 seconds, or if the person does not regain consciousness.
Stay with the patient until fully alert.

Additional medical emergencies

Diabetic emergencies. Blood sugar issues can result in confusion, shakiness, or loss of consciousness. A therapist should:

Know the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
Offer a quick source of sugar such as juice or glucose tablets if the patient is alert.
Seek medical help if symptoms worsen or the patient is unresponsive.
Encourage patients with diabetes to bring snacks or monitor glucose levels pre-session and post-session.

Allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic response that requires immediate attention. Therapists should:

Look for signs like swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, or low blood pressure.
Administer epinephrine using an auto-injector if available.
Call emergency services and monitor the patient.
Lay the person down with legs elevated unless breathing is difficult.

Emergency response protocols

A structured response plan helps physical therapists and support staff act effectively during emergencies. It also helps everyone feel calm and prepared in the therapy setting. Training and communication are key elements, with protocols including:

Assess the situation

Stay calm and make sure that the area is safe for both the patient and staff.
Quickly identify the nature and severity of the emergency.
Check for responsiveness, breathing, and circulation.

Call for help

Designate one team member to call emergency services.
Provide clear information: location, type of emergency, and patient condition.
Have someone meet emergency responders to guide them.

Administer first aid

Follow training guidelines for CPR, AED use, wound care, or injury stabilization.
Only perform actions within your scope of practice and training.
Use gloves and protective gear when necessary.

Document the incident

Record the sequence of events, actions taken, and patient response.
Include witness statements and note time-sensitive details.
Store documentation in the patient’s file or clinic records.

Communicate with the patient and family

Offer reassurance and explain what is happening.
Notify emergency contacts as appropriate.
Be prepared to answer follow-up questions or provide a written summary.

Emergency preparedness tips for PT clinics

Being proactive about emergency readiness can lower the likelihood of severe outcomes and support clinic-wide confidence in responding to medical events. For PT clinics, some tips that help with preparedness include:

Developing a written emergency plan

Outline protocols for different types of emergencies.
Include contact information, designated roles, and procedures.
Review and update the plan regularly.
Post emergency steps in visible locations.

Conducting staff training

Provide first aid, CPR, and AED certification.
Practice drills for various scenarios.
Assign specific responsibilities for calling 911, assisting the patient, and documenting the event.
Encourage staff to ask questions and role-play situations.

Maintaining equipment and supplies

Keep a well-stocked first aid kit and check it routinely.
Ensure the AED is functional and accessible.
Store emergency supplies in a clearly marked location.
Have backup batteries and updated instructions near each device.

Knowing your patients

Review medical histories for conditions that may raise the risk of emergencies.
Ask about allergies, medications, and emergency contacts.
Monitor high-risk patients more closely during sessions.
Encourage patients to disclose any changes in health.

Fostering a culture of awareness

Encourage open communication among staff.
Encourage team members to report concerns.
Regularly review policies and procedures during staff meetings.

Managing medical emergencies in the workplace

Medical emergencies can happen in any workplace, including physical therapy clinics. Being prepared, maintaining up-to-date training, and having clear protocols in place can make a significant difference in how these situations are handled.

By staying alert, acting quickly, and working together as a team, PTs and other staff can create a safer environment for both patients and colleagues. Preparedness isn’t just about response. It’s about creating a culture of safety and support across the clinic.

A shared commitment to emergency readiness helps everyone feel more secure and ready to respond when needed.