Identify types of bleeding
Arterial bleeding: bright red blood (oxygen) the pumps out in distinct spurts; victim can bleed out in 1-2 minutes; immediate application of tourniquet.
Venous bleeding: steady flow of dark red/maroon blood; much easier to control than arterial bleeding.
Capillary bleeding: slow oozing of blood; minor wounds.
Symptoms of shock (9)
- Sweaty but cool skin
- Pale skin
- Restlessness, nervousness
- Thirst
- Loss of blood (caused by internal or external bleeding)
- Confusion or loss of awareness
- Faster than normal breathing rate
- Blotchy or bluish skin (esp around mouth/lips)
- Nausea and vomiting
Treatment and prevention of shock (7)
- Move the casualty to cover
- Position on back. Don’t move casualty on limbs if suspected fractures haven’t been splinted.
- Elevate feet higher than heart. Use stable object so feet don’t slip. Splint suspected fractures first.
- Loosen clothing wherever binding.
- Prevent chilling or overheating.
Calm the casualty. - Don’t give food or drink. If unconscious, turn on side in recovery position in case victim vomits.
Identify classification of burns (3)
First degree: most superficial layer of the epidermis; only reddening of skin.
Second degree: partial thickness burns cause damage into but not through the dermas and results in blisters forming on the skin.
Third degree: full thickness burns destroy the skin to the fat; skin may be pale, dry, white, or charred. Nerve endings usually destroyed, victim feels no pain.
Types of burns (3)
Thermal: contact w/ fire, hot objects, hot liquids, gases, or nuclear blast or fireball. Most common in combat.
Electrical: contact w/ electrical wires, current, or lightning.
Chemical: contact w/ wet or dry chemical or white phosphorus.
