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.

 

 

 

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