Hypothermia__________________________________
Hypothermia is a condition where the body temperature drops below
the threshold to maintain a normal metabolism. It can be serious and
usually occurs where victims have been immersed in cold water for an
extended time. If you encounter a possible victim of hypothermia call
for help on the radio and get the person out of the water.
Look for the following symptoms of hypothermia:
Shivering that may stop in advanced stages of
hypothermia.
Confusion, clumsiness or slurred speech.
Rigid muscles.
Semiconscious to unconscious.
Treatment of hypothermia is best done when it is caught early.
Perform the following for treatment:
Remove wet clothing.
Monitor the victim’s pulse and breathing.
Rapidly apply heat to the body core by using blankets,
naked bodies, or warm water. DO NOT warm the arms
and legs. Warming extremities may prove fatal.
FOLLOW UP WITH MEDICAL AUTHORITIES AFTER
TREATING HYPOTHERMIA.
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