Sec1.fa8 effects of heat

EFFECTS OF HEAT

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT EXHAUSTION

Recognition Feeling hot, exhausted and weak Headache Thirst and nausea Giddiness and faintness Pale, cool, clammy skin Cramps in the arms, legs or the abdominal wall. Rapid, weak pulse Rapid breathing and shortness of breath

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT EXHAUSTION

Treatment Move casualty to a cool place with circulating air.

Lay casualty down and raise casualty’s legs.

Loosen tight clothing and remove unnecessary garments.

Sponge with cold water.

Give fluids to drink.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT EXHAUSTION

Treatment Fan the casualty.

Monitor & record breathing and pulse rates and response every 10 minutes.

Even if casualty recovers quickly, ensure he sees a doctor.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

When sweating, the body’s natural cooling

system ceases and the body temperature

may rise to 40°C or more. If not treated

promptly by cooling the body and

replacing fluids lost through excessive

perspiration, heatstroke will develop.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

Recognition High body temperature of 40°C or more.

Flushed, dry skin.

Initially a pounding, rapid pulse which gradually weakens.

Headache, nausea and/or vomiting.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

Recognition Dizziness and visual disturbance.

Irritability and mental confusion.

Altered mental state which may progress to seizures and unconsciousness.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

Treatment Remove casualty to a cool place.

Remove all outer clothing.

Loosen tight clothing.

Keep casualty’s head and shoulders raised.

Wrap casualty with a cold, wet sheet and fan the casualty.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

Treatment If the casualty starts to shiver, wrap with a dry

sheet and take temperature.

If temperature falls to 38C, stop active cooling.

Give frequent sips of cool water if casualty is fully

conscious.

EFFECTS OF EXTREME HEAT- HEAT STROKE

Treatment If casualty becomes unconscious, place casualty

in recovery position.

Call for an ambulance.