Mark Robin - Accidents; Suspension Trauma

DANGER
9.1 Suspension trauma
Suspension trauma
Falling into the rope, a long descent or being suspended for a long period can
induce suspension trauma (orthostatic shock). A suspension trauma can have
lifelong detrimental eects on your health and even lead to death.
• Rescue the injured person quickly.
• Perform the correct first aid measures.
How do I know it‘s a suspension trauma?
• Paleness
• Sweating
• Shortness of breath
• At the onset: increased pulse rate
• Narrowing of vision
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Later drop in pulse rate and blood pressure
A suspension trauma is a medical emergency!
• Call the ambulance!
• Free the injured person from the suspended position.
• Position the injured person with raised upper body (sitting up or squatting).
• Open straps and tight clothes.
• Monitor cardiovascular and respiratory system.
• If the casualty has no signs of life start with CPR.
If the injured person is suspended but able to move, tell him: Kick one foot with the
other. Point the toes. However, this exercise will keep the blood circulation going for a
short time (some minutes). (Source: BG/GUV-I 869)
the longer it takes to rescue
the injured person
 ACCIDENTS
The following information should help you avoid accidents. However, this information
does not replace experience, responsibility and know-how and does not release you
from assuming personal risk.
• Prepare a rescue plan and indicate all possible rescue measures for any given
emergency situations.
• Check use and fall area before using this product and alleviate or secure them.
• In a rescue situation communication between all involved persons has to be ensured.
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