Heat Injuries - Environmental Flashcards
1
Q
Primary Survey
A
- Confirm there are no D-Spine precautions
- Assess lvl of consciousness (AVPU scale)
- Assess & manage ABC’s as required
- Expose & examine chest (why?)
- Complete RBS
- Apply O2 (non-rebreather or BVM if indicated)
- Consider the patients position & remove from hot environment
2
Q
Decision Point
A
Findings in the unstable patient include:
- Heat stroke
- Decreased LOC
- Signs and symptoms of shock
3
Q
Load and Transport
A
Transport PT in cool environment. Monitor PT for signs of shivering as this can increase body temp
4
Q
Critical History
A
- Environment (Esp. Temp & humidity)
- Length of time in environment
- PT’s activities
- Recent fluid intake
- Approx fluid loss or pre-disposition to dehydration
- Treatment done prior to EMS arrival
5
Q
Patient History
A
SAMPLE/OPQRRRST
6
Q
Vital Signs
A
- Complete vitals q5 for unstable PT
- Complete vitals q15 for stable PT
7
Q
Hospital Notification and Head to Toe/Functional Inquiry
A
- Completed enroute to hospital
8
Q
Protocol(s)
A
None
9
Q
Treatment - Heat Cramps
A
- Consider giving PT small amounts of fluids such as water or sports drinks if nausea & vomiting not present
- Do NOT massage cramping muscles
10
Q
Treatment - Heat Exhaustion
A
- Remove excess clothing
- Sponge, spray, or drip the PT with tepid water and fan gently to make PT more comfortable
- Consider fluid & electrolyte replacement with sports drink
11
Q
Treatment - Heat Stroke
A
- Rapid cooling should be initiated in initial assessment
- Cooling can be accomplished by removing PT’s clothing & spraying PT w/ tepid water
- Constantly fan PT to promote evaporation
- Place ice packs in the PT’s groin, neck, and axilla regions
- Monitor the PT to prevent shivering as this will increase body temp
- Do NOT give PT anything by mouth
- Anticipate a deterioration in PT condition & possible seizure activity
