Common Outdoor Medical problems Flashcards
What should you do if someone in your group comes down with the flu?
let it run its course, get plenty of rest, hydration and maintain high camp hygiene practices
What are some signs that you would be concerned about with a sore throat?
bacterial infection: beefy red throat; white pus spots; fever and headache
Someone on your trip has had an upset stomach and diarrhea for a few days. What
would be some signs that they should be evacuated?
blood in stool or vomit; coffee ground vomit; not able to hydrate for 48 hours; persistent vomiting or diarrhea; and spiking fever
What are the symptoms of kidney stones? What should you do if you suspect someone
has this?
symptoms: intermittent excruciating pain; pain radiates to lower abdomen or groin; pale, sweating, nauseated, writhing in pain; possible blood in urine; no chills or fever
treatment: copious amount of water; pain medication; evacuate if pain is greater than 48 hours or unable to urinate
What are the symptoms of appendicitis?
pain starts behind belly button and over a couple of days shifts to the lower right side; anorexia; nausea; vomiting; possible fever and elevated pulse; skin over appendix will be very sensitive; often laying in fetal position; pain with even the slightest movement
treatment: immediate evacuation
What are the symptoms of a mild allergic reaction?
A severe one?
What would you do to treat either of these?
mild: local swelling; running nose; sneezing; swollen eyes; flushed and itchy skin; hives or welts; mild or no breathing difficulty
severe: flushed and itchy skin; swollen face, lips and tongue; respiratory distress; shock
treatment: remove allergen or remove patient; give oral antihistamines (if patient can swallow); topical glucocorticoids; hydration; monitor for breathing difficulties, for large areas of swelling, respiratory compromise or shock - inject epinephrine and evacuate immediately
