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TRAUMA CARE Table 1: Hypothermia CLASSIFICATIONS TRADITIONAL TRAUMA Mild Moderate Severe 98-89.6º F (35-32º C) 89.6-82.4º F (32-28º C) < 82.4º F <28º C and evaporation.10–14 Hypothermia can impact any organ or system. It can also contribute to the development of acidosis due to decreased tissue perfusion, shivering and a decrease in the removal of lactic acid from the body.10–14 These events can lead to a decrease in oxygen utili- zation and an increase in carbon dioxide production. The impact of hypothermia in the clinical setting will vary by situation. For example, in a medical or post-medical cardiac arrest, hypothermia can have therapeutic benefits. In contrast, hypo- Table 2: Body Temperature and Symptoms Shiver in all extremities TEMPºC SYMPTOMS 34–35 Below 34 33 28–32 28–30 28 Altered mental status, amnesia, dysarthria (a condition that occurs when problems with the muscles that help you talk make it diffi cult to pronounce words), respiratory rate may increase Ataxia (unsteady gait), apathy, hyperventilation, tachypnea, tachycardia, and renal impairment Oxygen consumption decreases, altered mentation with central nervous system depression, hypoventilation, hyporefl exia, decreased renal fl ow, the patient may undress inappropriately. Pupils dilated and minimally responsive Ventricular fi brillation and decreased myocardial contractions possible 27 or lower Unconscious & unresponsive is possible 95.0-93.2º F (35-34º C) 93.2-89.6º F (34-32º C) < 89.46º F <32º C thermia in trauma cases has been shown to worsen overall condition. A mainstay in trauma care is to avoid it.15–17 There are numerous signs and symptoms associated with hypothermia, including confusion, dizziness, chills, dyspnea, mood change and irritability. In situations of more severe hypothermia, the patient may demonstrate paradox- ical undressing—removal of clothing in response to prolonged cold stress. Slurred speech and/or ataxia may mimic a stroke or alcohol intoxication (see Table 2).2–4,10–14 The prehospital treatment of hypo- thermia should be focused on main- taining the patient's core body tempera- ture and preventing any further heat loss. This can be challenging in the prehos- pital setting. Studies have shown that JSA-400 Aluminum Break-Apart Stretcher JSA-400 Designed to gently maneuver stretcher under patient without rolling or lifting. The center of the Junkin Aluminum Break-Apart Stretcher can be opened to allow the patient to be X-rayed while secured on the stretcher. Features sturdy, lightweight aluminum construction with an adjustable length and three patient restraint straps. Folds for easy storing and separates in half during application and removal. 888-458-6546 3121 Millers Lane Louisville, KY 40216 Tel: 502-775-8303 Fax: 502-772-0548 For More Information Circle 30 on Reader Service Card 46 FEBRUARY 2012 | EMSWORLD.com SAFE T Y APPLIANCE COMPAN Y www.junkinsafety.com For More Information Circle 31 on Reader Service Card Specifications Dimensions: 66 ¼" L x 17 ½" W x 2 5⁄8" H Folded Length: 49 ½" Folded Depth: 3 ½" Adjustable to: 80" Load Capacity: 400 lbs. Shipping Weight: 21 ½ lbs. PROUDLY MANUFACTURED IN THE USA