| emergency theory | A theory of the emotions, advanced by W.B. Cannon, that animal and human organisms respond to emergency situations by increased sympathetic nervous system activity including an increased catecholamine production with associated increases in blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates, and skeletal muscle blood flow. See: relaxation response. Synonym: Cannon's theory. (05 Mar 2000) |
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| emergency treatment | First aid or other immediate intervention for accidents or medical conditions requiring immediate care and treatment before definitive medical and surgical management can be procured. (12 Dec 1998) |