ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
HYPERTHERMIA
Background
Hyperthermia can occur when a person is exercising or active in the heat for extended periods of time. Hyperthermia can progress from heat exhaustion, to the more life-threatening condition of heat stroke if not treated early. The elderly are at high risk of temperature related illness on hot days even without exertion.
HEAT EXHUASTION
Recognition
- hot, pale and sweaty skin
- the casualty may feel dizzy, weak and nauseous.
- the person will still be able to communicate reasonably
Management
- take the casualty out of the heat
- remove excess clothing
- cool them down by sponging and fanning them gently
- help to re-hydrate the casualty by giving them small sips of cool water
HEAT STROKE
Recognition
- hot & dry skin
- loss of coordination
- confusion & disorientation
- nausea or vomiting
- collapse
Management
- take the casualty out of the heat
- remove excess clothing and
- place water-soaked towels or items of clothing on the casualty and fan them
- Wrapped ice packs can be placed where there are large blood vessels, including the armpits, groin and around the neck.
- Give the casualty regular but small sips of cool water if they are able to swallow
- 000 must be called in the event of heat stroke as this will quickly lead to serious complications and potentially death.
PICTURE