Podcast
Questions and Answers
In managing a patient with a localized cold injury, which of the following actions is most appropriate following initial assessment and general wound care?
In managing a patient with a localized cold injury, which of the following actions is most appropriate following initial assessment and general wound care?
- Monitor and reassess the injury while preventing any possibility of refreezing. (correct)
- Vigorously rub the affected skin to promote circulation.
- Administer a large bolus of warm intravenous fluids to increase core temperature.
- Apply direct, intense heat to rapidly thaw the frozen tissue.
When treating a patient for systemic hypothermia who is awake but showing signs of altered mental status, but no respiratory distress, what is the next immediate step according to the flowchart?
When treating a patient for systemic hypothermia who is awake but showing signs of altered mental status, but no respiratory distress, what is the next immediate step according to the flowchart?
- Immediate intubation and ventilation.
- Administer a 2000 ml bolus of NS or LR intravenously.
- Rub the patient's extremities to promote warmth.
- Initiate active warming measures. (correct)
A patient found unresponsive in a cold environment is assessed. Which of the following findings requires immediate intervention differing from standard hypothermia protocols?
A patient found unresponsive in a cold environment is assessed. Which of the following findings requires immediate intervention differing from standard hypothermia protocols?
- Absence of a palpable pulse. (correct)
- Core temperature of 32°C.
- Presence of shivering.
- Altered mental status.
What is the rationale behind limiting the initial fluid bolus to a maximum of 2000 ml of Normal Saline (NS) or Lactated Ringer's (LR) in the treatment of systemic hypothermia?
What is the rationale behind limiting the initial fluid bolus to a maximum of 2000 ml of Normal Saline (NS) or Lactated Ringer's (LR) in the treatment of systemic hypothermia?
In the management of localized cold injury, why is refreezing of the affected tissue strongly discouraged?
In the management of localized cold injury, why is refreezing of the affected tissue strongly discouraged?
Flashcards
Initial Assessment
Initial Assessment
Initial evaluation to determine the nature and severity of a patient's condition.
Hypothermia vs. Frostbite
Hypothermia vs. Frostbite
Hypothermia affects the entire body, dropping core temperature. Frostbite is localized tissue freezing.
Warming Injured Tissue
Warming Injured Tissue
Avoid rubbing skin to prevent further tissue damage.
Passive Warming
Passive Warming
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Fluid Resuscitation Limits
Fluid Resuscitation Limits
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Study Notes
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Cold-related illness
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General adult assessment
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Next steps include:
- Remove from environment
- Temperature measurement (if available)
- Remove wet clothing
- Dry/warm patient
- Passive warming measures
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Hypothermia/Frost bite
Localized Cold Injury
- Monitor and reassess
- General wound care
- Avoid rubbing skin to warm
- Avoid refreezing
Awake with/without altered mental status
- Check for respiratory distress
- If yes, respiratory distress
No Respiratory Distress
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Active warming measures
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Vascular access
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Cardiac monitor
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Administer NS or LR bolus 500 ml IV/IO
- Repeat to effect SBP >90
- Maximum 2000 ml
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General adult trauma assessment
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Shock (Non-trauma)
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Monitor and reassess
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Continue general adult assessment
Systemic Hypothermia
- If unresponsive, check for pulse
- If no pulse, cardiac arrest
- If pulse present, active warming measures
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Description
Overview of treating systemic hypothermia and frostbite, including monitoring, warming, and fluid administration. Covers assessments for respiratory distress and altered mental status, along with steps for localized cold injuries and general wound care. Focuses on adult patient care.
