ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
HYPOTHERMIA
Background
Hypothermia can occur when a person has been exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period of time, especially when cold & wet.
Recognition
Mild hypothermia
- Skin will be pale and cold,
- The casualty will appear slow and may start to shiver uncontrollably
- The casualty may show signs of confusion but will still be able to communicate.
Severe hypothermia
- Shivering may cease
- The casualty may act irrationally eg. taking clothes off
- Severe fatigue & confusion
- collapse
Management
- Bring the casualty indoors or move to some form of protective environment
- Remove all wet clothing and wrap the casualty in layers of dry clothes or blankets.
- Do not to warm the casualty too quickly eg Avoid hot baths, showers or heaters.
- Gentle and slow warming is the key
- Hot, sweet drinks may be given if the casualty is able to drink
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