Reformatted for gjots from the original Psion file medic from http://3lib.ukonline.co.uk/pocketinfo/index.html by Bob Hepple, bhepple@freeshell.org, Nov 2002 \NewEntry 1 Disclaimer In a medical emergency any trained first aiders or medical staff present must always be used for treatment.The information given here must only be used in extreme situations where such trained help is not available No liability is accepted for any condition caused by this information Words in capital letters refer to other entries in the database, except "DO NOT" which advises on any actions which must not be attempted \NewEntry 2 First Aid Priorities 1 Observe situation/accident fully 2 Look for immediate dangers 3 DO NOT put yourself at risk 4 Protect victim 5 Be aware of your limitations 6 Assess all casualties,treating life threatening injuries first 7 Ensure all necessary emergency services have been called \NewEntry 3 Initial Assessment & Resuscitation 1 Check for consciousness,ie a RESPONSE,being careful not to move head or neck 2 Open AIRWAY by tilting head back 3 Check for BREATHING by listening,looking & feeling 4 Check PULSE,circulation 5 Check for bleeding & control (once breathing & pulse return) \NewEntry 4 Road Accident-General 1 Ensure your own safety 2 Park safely (if driving),clear of accident,hazzard indicator on DO NOT run across motorway/freeway 3 If dark,carry/wear reflective material or a light 4 Send bystanders to warn traffic 5 Set reflective warning triangles 200m in either direction 6 Turn off ignition of all vehicles,disconnecting batteries if possible.Turn off fuel supplies to diesel vehicles & motorcycles 7 Steady vehicles using handbrakes & put into gear.Put blocks under wheels if not possible DO NOT right overturned vehicles,simply brace to prevent further movement 8 Look for hazards-signs on commercial vehicles,fuel spills,power cables etc 9 Assess all casualties,dealing with life-threatening conditions first.Move victims only if in immediate danger 10 Search area for victims thrown clear or dazed and wandering around 11 For unconscious victims; -DO NOT move -Assume neck injury (SPINAL INJURY) \NewEntry Abdominal Wounds Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Lie victim down-elevate knees if wound across abdomen 2 Loosen clothes 3 Put large dressing over wound & secure with bandage/sticky tape 4 If blood seeps through cover with another dressing If victim coughs/vomits,press firmly on dressing to stop abdomen internals pushing out If intestine protruding,cover with cling film or plastic bag to stop drying out Notes: If victim becomes unconscious,open AIRWAY,check BREATHING/PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE.Place in RECOVERY POSITION,supporting abdomen \NewEntry Abdominal Wounds-Blunt Cause: Symptoms: Like SHOCK: *Rapid pulse *Low bloodpressure *Cold,clammy skin *Abdomen may become rigid/tender *Victim may be confused/unable to remember or describe injury Treatment: 1 Monitor victim's PULSE & BREATHING.Rapid,weak pulse or very rapid/slow breathing may indicate internal bleeding.If these signs develop,call emergency services immediately 2 Lie victim down with feet elevated above heart 3 Loosen clothes & cover with blanket to keep warm Do not give anything to eat or drink,even if thirsty Watch for SHOCK Notes: \NewEntry Airway,Opening Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Place two fingers under victim's chin 2 Place free hand on forehead 3 Gently tilt head well back-if head/neck/spinal injury suspected,handle very carefully & tilt head just enough to open airway Notes: If arway blocked; Use finger to remove blockage using a hooking action to avoid forcing blockage further into throat \NewEntry Alcohol Poisoning Cause: Symptoms: *Alcohol smell *Unconsciousness *Flushed/moist face *Deep/noisy breathing *Full pulse Later *Dry,bloated face *Shallow breathing *Dilated pupils,poor light reaction *Weak,rapid pulse Treatment: 1 Shake shoulders/speak loudly to guauge RESPONSE level 2 If unconscious,open AIRWAY,check BREATHING & PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE 3 Protect from cold ground & cover to keep warm Notes: \NewEntry Allergic Reaction (Anaphylactic Shock) Cause: Certain drugs,insect stings,foods (ie peanuts) Symptoms: *Anxiety *Difficulty breathing *Red,blotchy skin *Face/neck swelling,puffy eyes *Rapid pulse Treatment: 1 Call emergency services 2 Make victim comfortable-sitting position may relieve breathing trouble 3 Monitor & record BREATHING,PULSE & response every 5 mins until help arrives If vicim becomes unconscious place in RECOVERY POSITION & prepare to RESUSCITATE Notes: Check for EpiPen or adrenaline syringe & assist victim to use if necessary \NewEntry Amoebic Dysentery Cause: Contaminated water/raw food Symptoms: *Fatigue *Listlessness *High temp *Solid/foul smelling faeces with blood/red mucus Treatment: Flagyl,plenty of fluids/rest Notes: \NewEntry Angina Cause: Sign of heart disease-narrow artery unable to carry enough blood to heart Symptoms: *Gripping pain in chest centre,often spreading to left/both arms,through to back & up to jaw *Breathlessness *Pale skin,bluish lips *Anxiety *Sudden,extreme weakness Treatment: Reduce work done by heart 1 Reassure victim 2 Sit them in most comfortable position,loosen clothing 3 Ask if they have medication-pills placed under tongue/spray under tongue 4 Keep victim rested 5 Check pain passes in 1-2 mins Notes: If pain persists may be heart attack-get victim to hospital immediately Monitor & record BREATHING & PULSE & be prepared to RESUSCITATE \NewEntry Animal Bite-Minor Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Treat as per CUTS & ABRASIONS Notes: Contact doctor if signs of INFECTION develop \NewEntry Animal Bite-Puncture Wound/Large Gash Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Apply pressure to wound & raise injured area 2 Cover wound with sterile dressing and bandage 3 Get medical attention Notes: If bitten by wild or domestic animal may get an infection & have injury to soft tissue.Most serious consequence rabies,transmitted in saliva of diseased animals,including dogs,cats,cattle,& bats.Infected animals may behave strangely;i.e.a nocturnal animal active during day,or may drool,appear partially paralyzed,irritable or quiet.Fatal if not treated promptly.If you/victim may have been bitten by rabid animal,call emergency services immediately.Get away from animal.DO NOT try to catch/hold it.Wash wound with soap & water,control bleeding & apply antibiotic ointment & dressing.If bleeding heavily,do not try to wash;try to control bleeding.Remember what animal looked like & where last seen \NewEntry Asthma Cause: Muscles in walls of tubes in lungs tighten,narrow & impede air flow Usually caused by an allergy Symptoms: *Breathing/speaking difficulty *Wheezing *Grey/blue skin *Dry,tickly cough Treatment: 1 Keep calm,reassure victim & encourage slow,deep breaths 2 Help victim find & use inhaler (usually blue) to synchronize with deep intake of breath to take spray down into lungs If attack continues over 10 mins: -Call emergency services Sit victim down,leaning slightly forward,resting elbows on back of another chair Open window,unless cold weather Notes: DO NOT lie victim down \NewEntry Bacillary Dysentery Cause: Flies/contaminated water/infected faeces Symptoms: *Blood-streaked faeces *Sudden high temp Treatment: 1 Antibiotics 2 Rest 3 Fluid intake Notes: \NewEntry Back/Spinal Injury Cause: -Falling from height,ladders,horses,motorcycles -Deceleration from car accident -Head/face injury -Sports injury Symptoms: *Pain in neck/back *Step/twist in curve of spine *Spine tender to touch *If spinal cord damaged; -Loss of limb movement -Abnormal sensation -Breathing difficulty Treatment: Conscious Victim; 1 Reassure victim & tell them not to move 2 Keep head,neck & spine aligned using your hands over their ears to keep head still 3 Place rolled towels/padding around neck & shoulders,keeping head held 4 Call emergency services If victim becomes unconscious,place in RECOVERY POSITION,keeping head/neck aligned with spine. Be prepared to RESUSCITATE Unconscious Victim; If BREATHING & PULSE found, place in RECOVERY POSITION,keeping head/neck aligned with spine.Call emergency services If not BREATHING & no PULSE 1 Call emergency services 2 Open/clear AIRWAY.Tilt head very gently keeping head in neutral position (head/neck/spine aligned,nose in line with navel) 3 Check BREATHING & PULSE-if still absent,log roll (see below) victim onto back if necessary for RESUSCITATE 4 Combine ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION with CHEST COMPRESSIONS until medical help arrives 5 If BREATHING/PULSE recover,place victim in RECOVERY POSITION Notes: DO NOT move unless in danger Log Roll -Keep head,toes & in straight line throughout -Maintain support at neck -Helpers straighten victim's arms & legs -Log roll victim onto back,keeping neck supported \NewEntry Bilharzia Cause: Microscopic worm in infected water or broken skin Symptoms: Irritation of urinary tract Treatment: Niridazole Notes: Disease of bowel/bladder \NewEntry Black Eye Cause: Symptoms: Type of bruise Treatment: Apply ice/cold packs for 15 mins every 1-2 hours during first 48 hours to help vessels constrict/reduce swelling.Sooner ice applied,less bleeding will result If painful after 48 hours,apply heat with warm towels,hot water bottle,heating pad Notes: Seek medical advice immediately if -signs of INFECTION Or Blow to eye causes: -Blood in coloured/white part of eye -Impaired/double vision -Inability to move eye normally -Severe pain in eyeball rather than eye socket \NewEntry Bleeding-Internal Cause: Direct blow to body,fracture,sprain,bleeding ulcer.Internal bleeding results when blood vessels rupture & blood leaks into body cavities.If victim receives injury to chest/abdomen,suspect internal bleeding Symptoms: *Pain & tenderness in affected area *Skin cold,clammy *Pale face/lips *Weakness/fainting/dizziness *Nausea *Thirst *Rapid/weak/irregular pulse *Shortness of breath *Dilated pupils *Swelling/bruising at site of injury *Red urine (bladder/kidney injury) *Blood vomited (stomach injury) *Blood coughed up (lung injury) Treatment: More symptoms experienced,more extensive the bleeding 1 Lay victim down,raise & support legs.Loosen clothing & protect from cold 2 Call medical help.Monitor & record BREATHING,PULSE & RESPONSE every 10 mins 3 Note amount,type & source of any external blood loss & collect sample for hospital 4 Victim may rinse mouth with water,but DO NOT give victim of internal bleeding anything to drink Notes: \NewEntry Bleeding-Severe External Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Apply direct pressure.Place clean folded cloth/dressing over injury & apply firm pressure.If blood soaks through,do not remove-cover cloth with another & continue to apply pressure for 10 mins.If bleeding from ear,place clean bandage over ear,lay victim on side & allow blood to drain out through bandage 2 Raise & support wounded part of body above heart while applying direct pressure 3 Lay victim down 4 Bandage wound.Apply dressing and bandage,covering with further dressing if blood seeps through.Check circulation beyond wound & loosen bandage if required 5 Call emergency services 6 Treat for SHOCK & monitor/record PULSE Notes: DO NOT remove any embedded object-apply pressure on both sides,pad & bandage If possible wear gloves to prevent infection DO NOT apply a tourniquet \NewEntry Bones-Cheekbone/Nose Fracture Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Apply cold compress to reduce swelling 2 Treat NOSEBLEED if necessary 3 Call emergency/take victim to hospital If straw coloured fluid leaks from nose suspect/treat as SKULL FRACTURE Notes: \NewEntry Bones-Closed Fractures/Dislocations Cause: Most occur in shoulder,elbow,finger,thumb Symptoms: *Swelling *Deformed look *Pain/tenderness *Discolouration Treatment: 1 Tell victim to keep steady/still 2 Support injured part until immobilised 3 For firm support-secure an injured limb to other part of the body; arms-support against torso using sling & bandaging legs-bandage injured leg to uninjured one 4 Call emergency services 5 Treat for SHOCK 6 Raise injured limb if possible 7 Check circulation around bandage every 10 mins & loosen if necessary Notes: DO NOT move victim until injury secure/supported DO NOT give anything to eat/drink DO NOT replace dislocated bone into socket \NewEntry Bones-Compound/Open Fracture Cause: Compound/Open fracture pierces through skin Symptoms: Serious bleeding may occur Treatment: 1 Cover wound with dressing.Apply pressure to control bleeding-not on exposed bone end 2 Place padding over/around dressing 3 Secure with bandage 4 Immobilise as a CLOSED FRACTURE 5 Call emergency services 6 Treat for SHOCK 7 Check circulation around bandage every 10 mins & loosen if necessary Notes: DO NOT move victim until fracture is secured & supported \NewEntry Bones-General Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Notes: Body consists of 200+ bones of different shapes & sizes.Bones plus muscles,tendons & ligaments form skeleton,which protects the organs body uses to function Bones are dense,very strong & do not break easily,except in elderly people with osteoperosis, the gradual weakening of bones Bone injuries often quite painful & may bleed-bones have ample amount of blood & nerves 2 types of bone injuries are;fractures(open or closed) & dislocations which also involve muscles & joints Body has 600+ muscles,which are soft tissue Injuries to brain,spinal cord or nerves can affect muscle control & when muscle is injured nearby muscle may take over for injured one Joint formed where ends of two or more bones come meet Bones held together by ligaments,which tear if joint forced beyond normal range of movement SPRAIN-tearing of ligaments at joint STRAIN-stretching &/or tearing of muscles/tendons Open FRACTURE when arm/leg twists and broken bone ends tear through skin,causing open wound.Closed fracture-skin not broken;much more common than open fracture Open fracture brings chance of infection & severe bleeding Fractures can be life-threatening if sever an artery,affect breathing,or occur in very large bones i.e.femur in thigh.Motor vehicle accident or fall from height may cause fracture DISLOCATION typically more noticeable than fracture & occurs when bone moves from normal position at joint.Violent force tears ligaments holding bone in place at joint,& joint no longer functions.Often,displaced bone causes obviously abnormal bump,ridge or hollow Sprains may swell but typically heal quickly.Pain may be minimal & victim may be active soon,in which case joint won't heal properly & remain weak.Likely to be reinjured more severely,possibly involving fracture/dislocation of bones at joint.Most easily injured joints are ankle,knee,wrist & fingers Strains frequently caused by lifting heavy objects or working a muscle too hard.They usually involve muscles in neck,back,thigh or back of lower leg.Strains tend to reoccur,especially those located in neck or back. X-ray best way to assess extent of damage to bone,muscle or joint.However,you may be able to judge how serious injury is by appearance.Area may be red,bruised,swollen,twisted or have bumps,ridges or hollows.Area may be painful to touch & move,or victim may be unable to move it.If you compare an injured body part with an uninjured one,may be able to locate abnormalities;works well with arm,leg,shoulder & knee.Sometimes victim may have heard snap/crack when injury occurred,or may feel bones grating.Also,victim's hands,fingers,feet or toes may tingle or feel numb \NewEntry Breathing,Checking Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Kneel beside victim,placing your face close to their mouth 2 Look at chest to see if rising 3 Listen for breathing sounds 4 Feel for breath on cheek Continue for 10 seconds before deciding there is no breath Notes: \NewEntry Bruises Cause: Ruptured blood vessels under skin,often from a bump or fall.Blood seeps into surrounding tissues,causing black & blue colour of bruise People who take aspirin/blood thinners (anticoagulants) may bruise easily May develop after blood drawn Black eye a type of bruise.Apply treatment below & inspect eye Symptoms: Treatment: Apply ice or cold packs for 15 mins every 1-2 hours during first 48 hours to help vessels constrict & reduce swelling.Sooner ice applied,less bleeding will result.If possible,elevate bruised area.Blood will leave area & there will be less swelling Rest injured limb so not injured further If still painful after 48 hours,apply heat with warm towels,hot water bottle or heating pad Notes: If signs of INFECTION develop or if you suddenly begin to bruise easily or have unexplained recurrent or multiple bruises Seek medical advice immediately Bruises follow predictable pattern & possible to tell by looking how old it is.When first appears,will be reddish looking,reflecting colour of blood skin.By 1-2 days,reddish iron from blood undergoes change & bruise will appear blue/purple.Day 6,colour changes to green & day 8-9,bruise will appear yellowish-brown.In general,a bruise will be repaired in 2-3 weeks after which skin will return to normal \NewEntry Burns-Chemical Cause: Chemicals used in manufacturing or items like bleach,battery acid,paint removers Symptoms: *Stinging sensation on skin *Staining & discolouration *Skin reddens,blisters/peels Treatment: 1 Wash affected area with water (if dry chemical,brush off gently first with soft brush) 2 Remove contaminated clothes whilst washing 3 Cover burn,if inflammed,with dressing 4 Get victim to hospital If chemical is in eye; 1 Hold head under tap & allow water to run into eye,not into other eye 2 Keep eyelids separated during washing 3 Wash for 10 mins it possible,alternate every 10 secs if both eyes affected 4 Cover eye with sterile pad 5 Get victim to hospital Notes: If water not available,fluid such as milk or beer can be used \NewEntry Burns-Clothing Fire Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Make victim lie down at once 2 Use dry powder extinguisher or other heavy object to smother flames & exclude oxygen Once flames are out; 3 Remove hot clothes or cool with water 4 Cool victim for 10 minutes with water 5 Call emergency services 6 Check AIRWAY 7 Cover burns with clean dressings 8 Give victim sips of cool water if conscious Notes: DO NOT use Nylon material to smother DO NOT roll victim on ground \NewEntry Burns-Electrical Cause: Can be power lines,lightning,defective electrical equipment & unprotected outlets Symptoms: *Can result in serious muscle breakdown *Electrolyte abnormalities *Occasionally kidney failure Site of damage can be internal & not visible on skin surface Treatment: 1 Call emergency services in any case of electrical burn 2 Do not go near victim unless you are sure power turned off.Burn itself may not be the main problem 3 If victim unconscious,check BREATHING & PULSE.Check for other injuries,& do not move victim as may have spinal injuries 4 Cover burn with dry,sterile dressing.Do not cool burn 5 Prevent victim from getting chilled May be 2 wounds where current entered/exited body & they may be deep Notes: \NewEntry Burns-General Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Stop the burning.Put out flames or remove victim from heat source 2 Use large amounts of cool water to cool burn.Never use ice except on small superficial burns,as causes body heat loss.If burn area cannot be immersed,i.e.face,soak clean cloth & apply to burn,adding water to keep cloth cool 3 Cover with sterile dressings or clean cloth to prevent infection & reduce pain.Bandage loosely.DO NOT put ointment on burn unless very minor.Do not use home remedies or break blisters.Minor burns with broken blisters not severe enough to require medical attention,wash burned area with soap & water,keep clean & apply antibiotic ointment Some people allergic to topical ointments,so if any doubts,call doctor for advice.For victim of severe burns,lay down unless trouble BREATHING.Raise burned area above victim's heart,& protect from drafts Notes: DO NOT put butter or greasy ointments on burns.This seals heat into wound & may cause infection Always seek medical attention if; *Victim a child or elderly *Burn covers more than one body part *Burn located on any sensitive area (hands,face,feet,etc) *Burn third degree *Burn caused by chemicals \NewEntry Burns-Minor Cause: Damages outer layer of skin Symptoms: *Redness *Mild pain *Swelling Treatment: 1 Immediately submerge affected part in cold (running) water/fluid or cover with cold,wet cloths for 10 mins or until pain decreases 2 Remove any clothing/jewelry before swelling 3 Cover with clean,dry gauze dressing for protection Notes: DO NOT break blisters DO NOT apply adhesive dressing DO NOT use lotions,oils or fats which seal in heat,continuing the burn \NewEntry Burns-Severe/Scalds Cause: Go through to second layer of skin Symptoms: *Skin red with blisters-may open & weep clear fluid,giving wet appearance *Area may appear mottled *Usually painful & swells *Blisters *Rough,red skin *Extreme pain Treatment: 1 Lay victim down keeping injured area from ground 2 Cover burn with cold liquid for 10 mins 3 Watch for BREATHING problems & prepare to RESUSCITATE DO NOT overcool if burn area large due to risk of HYPOTHERMIA DO NOT remove anything sticking to burn 4 Call emergency services 5 Remove clothing/jewelry (unless sticking to burn) before swelling 6 Cover burn with clean dressing (or any clean,non-fluffy,material-kitchen film,pillowcase,plastic bag) to protect from infection.Burns to face do not need covering,just cooling 7 Record details of accident 8 Treat for SHOCK & reassure victim 9 Monitor & record BREATHING & PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE Notes: DO NOT break blisters DO NOT touch burn Do not apply lotions,oils,fats or sticky dressings \NewEntry Burns-Sunburn Cause: Solar radiation Symptoms: Painful & blister Treatment: 1 Get out of sun 2 Cool burn under cold shower/sponge with cold water 3 Avoid pressure on burn 4 Apply witch hazel,natural yoghurt, calamine lotion or sunburn cream 5 Protect burn by staying out of sun Seek medical attention if extensive blistering Notes: If going out in sun,wear sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 minimum & reapply frequently(SPFn-you can stay in sun n times longer than your normal burn time) Cover existing sunburn if going outside \NewEntry Cardiac Arrest Cause: Heart has stopped beating Symptoms: *Victim collapses & becomes unconscious/motionless *No breathing movement *No pulse *Skin greyish Treatment: 1 Call emergency services immediately stating cardiac arrest 2 Perform MOUTH-TO-MOUTH inflations 3 Start chest compression (CPR) 4 Give 2 inflations to every 15 compressions until help arrives Notes: \NewEntry Chest Wounds Cause: Symptoms: *Pain/difficulty breathing-maybe rapid,shallow & uneven *Sense of alarm May also be *Shock *Coughed up,frothy blood *Grey-blue nails,mouth & skin *Sucking sound of air at chest Treatment: 1 Use your/victim's palm to cover wound 2 Remove palm & cover with dressing 3 Cover dressing with plastic bag/foil/kitchen film & secure with sticky tape on 3 sides,leaving one open for air under pressure to escape 4 Support victim in most comfortable position,leaning towards injured side 5 Call emergency services 6 Treat for SHOCK If unconscious,open AIRWAY,check BREATHING & PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE.Place in RECOVERY POSITION with injured side uppermost Notes: \NewEntry Childbirth-1-Start of Labour Cause: Symptoms: *Low backache *Regular contractions *Discharge of bloodstained mucus May last several hours Treatment: 1 Call midwife/doctor/emergency services,giving full details,due date etc 2 Help mother into most comfortable position.Massaging lower back with heel of hand can relieve pain Notes: DO NOT bathe if waters have broken-can cause infection Mother will know what to expect but may panic \NewEntry Childbirth-2-Delivery Cause: Symptoms: *Contractions stronger/more frequent *Waters break any time Treatment: 1 Cover area with plastic sheet/newspaper/towels to absorb mess 2 Ensure emergency services are on way 3 Remove lower clothing,covering with blanket if mother prefers 4 When eidest part of baby's head visible-mother to stop pushing & pant instead. DO NOT allow the mother to drink-moisten lips if thirsty 5 Tear any membrane over baby's head 6 Allow baby to arrive naturally.If umbilical around baby's neck ease it over baby's head to avoid strangulation DO NOT pull baby's head or shoulders 7 Lift baby from birth canal-may be slippery-handle carefully 8 Place on mother's stomach DO NOT pull umbilical cord 9 Baby should cry-if not,carry out RESUSCITATION-DO NOT smack 10 Wrap baby in clean cloth/blanket & give to mother,with head low to let any mucus drain away from nose/mouth Notes: \NewEntry Childbirth-3-Delivery of Afterbirth/Placenta Cause: Symptoms: *Afterbirth delivered up to 30 mins after baby *When expelled and cord stopped pulsating,cord turns blue to white as bloods flows to baby Treatment: 1 Encourage mother DO NOT pull or cut umbilical cord 2 Keep afterbirth intact,ideally in a plastic bag,until midwife cuts cord 3 Provide water,clean towels/sanitary pad to clean mother who may want to clean herself 4 Massage womb just below navel-helps to stop bleeding by helping womb contract Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Aspyxiation Cause: Loss of consciousness due to presence of too little oxygen/too much carbon dioxide in the blood.Victim may stop breathing for number of reasons (drowning,electric shock,heart failure,poisoning,suffocation) Symptoms: Flow of oxygen throughout body stops within mins if respiratory system fails.Heart failure,brain damage & death will result if breathing not restarted Treatment: Rescue Breathing Person suffering from asphyxiation should be given rescue breathing Before rescue breathing,be certain victim actually stopped breathing: 1 Kneel beside victim,place ear near nose & mouth & watch chest.Should feel & hear breaths & see chest rise & fall if victim breathing If victim not breathing; 1 Provide open AIRWAY.Carefully place victim on back & open mouth.If material blocking airway,must be cleared out 2 Tilt victim's head back by placing heel of one hand on forehead & other hand under bony part of chin to lift it slightly 3 Straddle thighs,placing one palm slightly above navel but well below breastbone.Cover this hand with other & interlace fingers 4 Without bending elbows,press sharply on victim's abdomen 6-10 times 5 Turn victim's head to one side & sweep out any contents in their mouth with fingers 6 If victim's breathing not restored after removing object,reposition head in head-tilt/chin-lift position & continue breathing for them as long as necessary or until help arrives 7 If no signs of breathing,pinch victim's nostrils closed.Seal mouth over victim's & blow 2 full breaths.Rising chest indicates air reaching lungs.If stomach expanding instead,victim's neck & jaw positioned improperly.Gently push on victim's abdomen with palm of your hand until air is expelled,because extra air in stomach may cause vomiting 8 Look,listen & feel again for signs of breathing.If victim still not breathing on their own,continue blowing into their mouth one breath every 5 seconds until help arrives. Infants: If working with infant or small child,position your mouth so that you blow through child's nose & mouth at same time.Give 2 puffs,using mouth & cheeks for breathing air into infant's lungs (to keep from overinflating lungs) Administer one breath every 3-4 seconds Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Conscious Adult Cause: Symptoms: If person clutching throat with both hands,they are making universal sign for choking If person can cough or talk,encourage them to continue coughing Once victim can no longer talk or cough,you must clear obstructed airway Treatment: To clear airway perform Heimlich maneuver,aka abdominal thrusts: *Stand behind conscious choking adult,wrapping arms around their waist *With one hand,make fist *Place thumb side of fist against victim's abdomen just above navel *Be sure hand is far below tip of breastbone *Put other hand over the fist & give quick upward thrusts into victim's abdomen *Continue giving thrusts until object blocking airway dislodged & victim breathes,or until becomes unconscious Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Conscious Child Cause: Symptoms: If child can cough or talk,encourage them to continue coughing.If child cannot cough or talk,ask if they are choking Treatment: Perform abdominal thrusts: Stand behind victim,wrap arms around waist & make fist with one hand Place thumb side of fist against child's abdomen,above navel yet far below tip of breastbone Put other hand over the fist & give quick upward thrusts into victim's abdomen Continue giving thrusts until airway cleared & child breathes or becomes unconscious Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Conscious Infant Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: During primary survey you may determine that infant is conscious & cannot breathe,cough or cry You must give 5 back blows & 5 chest thrusts *Place infant faceup on forearm *Put other arm on top of infant *Use thumb & fingers to hold infant's jaw,sandwiching infant between forearms *Turn infant over,facedown on forearm. *Place arm down on your thigh,being sure that infant's head lower than chest *Using heel of your hand,give 5 back blows between infant's shoulder blades.Be sure to hold infant's jaw with thumb & fingers to stabilize head * You must turn infant back over to give chest thrusts * Place free hand & forearm across infant,sandwiching between forearms & supporting head * Turn infant over onto back & place arm down on thigh,making sure infant's head lower than chest * Imagine a line across infant's chest between nipples.Place ring finger on infant's breastbone just below imaginary line * Place pads of next 2 fingers just under line * Raise ring finger & if you can feel notch at tip of infant's breastbone,move fingers up a little * Compress infant's breastbone 1/2-1 inch with pads of fingers & let breastbone return to normal position * Give 5 compressions.Continue giving back blows & chest thrusts until infant can breathe or cough,or until unconscious Notes: \NewEntry Choking-General Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: If person is choking,do not interfere as long as they are coughing.If coughing does not dislodge object from trachea & victim breathing with extreme difficulty,or turn a bluish colour & appear choking but unable to cough or speak,quickly ask,"Are you choking?"Choking victim can nod their head "yes," but will be unable to talk.It is important to ask this question as a person suffering from a heart attack will have similar symptoms,but he will be able to talk Notes: The Abdominal Thrust If victim choking; 1 Stand behind with your arms around their waist 2 Place one fist,with knuckle of thumb against victim's midsection,slightly above navel but well below breastbone 3 Hold fist firmly with other hand & pull both hands sharply toward you with upward-and-inward jab 4 This procedure should be administered continually until object forced out or victim becomes unconscious DUE TO THE FORCE WITH WHICH ABDOMINAL THRUST IS GIVEN,IT SHOULD BE USED ONLY IN AN ACTUAL EMERGENCY \NewEntry Choking-Pregnant Woman or Obese Person Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Conscious Adult If a choking conscious adult is noticeably pregnant or too obese to wrap arms around in order to perform abdominal thrusts,give chest thrusts instead: * Stand behind victim,placing your arms under victim's armpits & around chest * Make fist with one hand & put thumb side of fist against centre of victim's breastbone * Make sure thumb is on breastbone,not ribs & not near tip of breastbone * Put your other hand over fist & give quick inward thrusts * Continue giving thrusts until object dislodged,or until victim becomes unconscious Unconscious Adult If victim was a conscious choking pregnant woman or obese person who became unconscious: * lower victim gently onto their back on the floor * Or,you may have determined during primary survey,even after retilting head & trying again,air would not go into pregnant or obese victim * You must give chest thrusts * Kneel beside victim,placing one hand on centre of victim's breastbone & then placing your other hand on top * Give 5 quick thrusts,compressing chest 1 1/2-2 inches * Do finger sweep,open airway with head tilt & chin lift & give 2 slow breaths * If air still will not go in,continue giving chest thrusts,finger sweeps & 2 slow breaths until object expelled & air goes in * If victim not breathing & has pulse,go to Rescue Breathing * If victim not breathing & does not have pulse,go to CPR Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Unconscious Adult Cause: Symptoms: If during primary survey your breaths will not go in an unconscious adult & you re-tilted head & tried again but breaths still would not go in,assume victim's airway obstructed Treatment: If victim was a conscious choking adult who became unconscious,you must lower them to the floor on their back.Perform head tilt & chin lift to try to open airway & attempt to remove obstruction by sweeping it out of victim's mouth with your finger.This is called a finger sweep Always use a hooking action,being careful not to lodge object in further Perform head tilt & chin lift & give 2 slow breaths.If breaths still do not go in,go to abdominal thrusts. Straddle one or both of victim's thighs.Place heel of one hand on victim's abdomen,just above navel yet far below tip of breastbone.Place other hand on top of first,interlacing fingers & give 5 quick upward thrusts.Then do a finger sweep & give 2 slow breaths If air still will not go in,continue giving 5 abdominal thrusts,a finger sweep & 2 slow breaths.Continue giving thrusts until object dislodged,air goes into victim,or medical personnel takes over If victim not breathing but has pulse,perform Rescue Breathing If victim not breathing & does not have pulse,go to CPR Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Unconscious Child Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: If child was a conscious choking victim who became unconscious,lower child down onto their back Or,you may have determined during primary survey that air would not go in,even after you retilted & tried again You must give child 5 abdominal thrusts,do finger sweep if you see object & open airway with head tilt & chin lift & give 2 slow breaths. If breaths still will not go in,continue giving abdominal thrusts,finger sweep & 2 slow breaths until object expelled,child starts to breathe or cough or medical professional takes over If child not breathing but has pulse,perform Rescue Breathing If child not breathing & does not have pulse,go to CPR Notes: \NewEntry Choking-Unconscious Infant Cause: Symptoms: If infant was a conscious choking victim who became unconscious,place them down on their back.Or,you may have determined during primary survey,even after retilting head & trying again,that air would not go in Treatment: Perform 5 back blows & 5 chest thrusts Do foreign body check:open infant's mouth,holding tongue & lower jaw & lifting them upward,& look for object;if you do see object,do finger sweep to remove it with little finger Then give 2 slow breaths.If air still will not go in,continue doing back blows,chest thrusts,foreign body check & 2 slow breaths until infant starts to breathe,cough or air goes in If infant not breathing but has pulse,perform Rescue Breathing If infant not breathing & does not have pulse,go to CPR Notes: \NewEntry Cholera Cause: Insanitary conditions Symptoms: *Vomiting *PULSE loss *Cold clammy skin *Muscle cramps Treatment: Prevent with regular innoculation Notes: \NewEntry Clothing Removal Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: NEVER remove clothes unless absolutely necessary as can cause more harm Crash Helmets DO NOT remove a crash helmet unless absolutely necessary Notes: \NewEntry Concussion Cause: Often a blow to head,jostling the brain inside the skull.More serious head injury may result in contusions or bruises to brain.Period of unconsciousness may indicate brain damage & accompanies many head injuries Symptoms: Concussion *Dizziness *Nausea *Mild Headache * Memory loss of accident Signs of brain injury/skull fracture *Clear or reddish fluid draining from ears,nose,mouth *Difficulty speaking *Headache *Unequal size pupils *Pale skin *Paralysis of arm/leg (opposite side of injury)or face(same side of injury) Treatment: 1 Place victim in RECOVERY POSITION.Monitor & record PULSE,BREATHING & RESPONSE every 10 mins 2 If unconscious over 3 mins call emergency services 3 If victim recovers,watch for any deterioration 4 Seek medical advice if sickness,tiredness or headache occurs after apparent recovery Notes: DO NOT give victim anything to drink \NewEntry Convulsions-Adult Cause: Epilepsy or sudden illness.Unlikely to cause death unless breathing stops Symptoms: *Muscles stiff & hard(tonic stage),followed by jerking movements(clonic stage) *Breathing may cease Treatment: 1 Help victim fall safely,reassure them 2 Clear all objects away from victim & place something soft under head 3 Check for epilepsy card-may list their typical pattern of seizure 4 Loosen tight clothing 5 If convulsions continue for more than 10 mins or victim injured during attack call emergency services 6 Place victim in RECOVERY POSITION once convulsions stopped 7 Stay with victim until fully recovered Notes: DO NOT place fingers or anything in mouth DO NOT restrain victim unless to prevent further injury Often followed by period of unconsciousness,another convulsion or confusion in victim \NewEntry Convulsions-Child Cause: Symptoms: *Fever *Violent muscle twitchng *Breath holding *Drooling Treatment: 1 Cool child by removing clothing 2 Clear away objects & surround with soft padding 3 Sponge with tepid water,starting at head 4 Once convulsions stopped,place in RECOVERY POSITION with head well tilted back 5 Call emergency services Notes: \NewEntry CPR Cause: Combines Chest Compressions with Artificial Ventilation Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Kneel beside victim.Locate lowermost rib with index & middle fingers of lower hand.Slide along rib to where it meets breastbone.Place middle finger at this point & index finger above it on the breastbone. 2 Place heel of free hand on breatbone & slide it down until it reaches index finger of other hand.This is the point to apply pressure 3 Place heel of first hand on top and interlock fingers 4 Lean over victim & with arms straight press breastbone vertically down about 4-5 cm.Release pressure but keep hands in place 5 (For adult) Repeat 15 times,at an ideal rate of 100 chest compressions per min 6 If alone,follow with 2 ARTIFICIAL VENTILATIONS 7 Continue alternating 15 chest compressions with 2 artificial ventilations until help arrives Notes: For children aged 1-7 years,alternate 5 chest compressions,using one hand,with 1 artificial ventilation For babies under 1 year,alternate 5 chest compressions,using two fingers,with 1 artificial ventilation (place lips over baby's mouth & nose for artificial ventilation) \NewEntry Cramp Cause: Unknown.Affects any muscle Symptoms: *Pain *Bunching of muscles bending toes/fingers Treatment: 1 Gently straighten joint 2 Massage affected area Notes: Passes in several minutes \NewEntry Cuts & Abrasions Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Cuts: Do not remove any object embedded in wound 1 Wash area with soap & warm water, washing away dirt 2 Apply pressure to wound until bleeding stops 3 Bandage wound 4 If deep,get to doctor quickly Abrasions (Scratches): 1 Wash with soap & warm water 2 If bleeds/oozes,bandage to protect from infection Notes: \NewEntry Dengue Cause: Symptoms: *Rash *Headache *Fever *Muscle/joint pain Treatment: No vaccine/cure Notes: Recovery takes several weeks \NewEntry Diabetes/Hypoglyaemia Cause: Insulin overdose Low carbohydrate intake Excessive exertion Symptoms: *Faintness/dizziness/shakiness/tremor *Confusion *Intoxication *Sweating,pale skin *Rapid unconsciousness Treatment: If conscious,give victim sugar-sweet drinks,chocolate-should improve within 10 mins-suggest medical attention Notes: \NewEntry Diabetes/Hypoglyaemia Coma Cause: Too little/no insulin Symptoms: *Unconsciousness *Nail varnish/pear drop smell on victim's breath Treatment: 1 Look for diabetic card/disc/sugar lumps or needle marks to ensure victim is diabetic 2 Place in RECOVERY POSITION Get victim to hospital Notes: \NewEntry Diarrhoea Cause: Common,usually brief Symptoms: *Loose/liquid faeces,passed more frequent than normal Treatment: 1 Drink plenty of fluid 2 Avoid solid foods 3 Do not use drugs unless advised by doctor,as these may keep the cause within the body Call doctor if diarrhoea persists,or if associated with fever/abdominal pain,vomitting or bloody stools Notes: \NewEntry Disease Prevention Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Notes: *Get immunised *Purify water *Prepare/eat food with clean hands *Wash/peel fruit *Sterilise eating tools *Protect body from insect bites *Wash/smoke louse infested clothes *Protect food from flies/vermin *Bury faeces *Wash body regularly \NewEntry Drowning Cause: Victim may survive even after 30 mins in cold water Symptoms: Treatment: If still in water; 1 Apply mouth-to-mouth ventilation,moving to dry land in between breaths 2 Get victim from water quickly,keeping head lower than chest once clear of water to lower risk of vomiting.Protect from cold weather/wind 3 Check BREATHING/PULSE 4 If ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION still needed,turn victim's head to side,clear mouth(may bring up water) If breathing,place in RECOVERY POSITION If cold,treat for HYPOTHERMIA Notes: Get to hospital DO NOT go into the water unless vital to do so \NewEntry Drug Overdose Cause: Symptoms: Numerous Treatment: 1 Call emergency services immediately 2 If victim conscious -Get as much information as possible-name of drug,time taken If victim unconscious -Check & clear AIRWAY,check PULSE & BREATHING & prepare to RESUSCITATE 3 If signs of burning in mouth & victim conscious,make them drink water/milk slowly 4 Place in RECOVERY POSITION whether conscious or not 5 Collect drug container & vomit sample if possible Notes: DO NOT keep victim awake with coffee or exercise-quickens absorption of drug DO NOT look for antidotes DO NOT make victim vomit \NewEntry Earache Cause: Symptoms: *Fever *Deafness *Discharge from ear Treatment: 1 Painkillers 2 Check temp & consult doctor if fever develops Notes: \NewEntry Electric Shock Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Remove victim from source of electricity before you touch them.Turn off master switch to disconnect power,or use nonmetal,dry object to pull wire or electrical source away from victim's body 2 If not BREATHING,begin ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION immediately;victim whose heart has stopped beating needs CPR 3 If victim unconscious but breathing & has PULSE,place in RECOVERY POSITION & monitor breathing/pulse until medical help arrives Notes: \NewEntry Emergency Services Information Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Notes: Information emergency services need *telephone number calling from *exact location,local road/junction names,landmarks *nature,severity & urgency of incident *nature of illness/injures *number,age & sex of victim(s) \NewEntry Eye Injury Cause: Symptoms: *Intense eye pain *Bloodshot eye *Partial/total vision loss *Blood/clear fluid loss Treatment: 1 Lay victim on back with head resting on your knees to keep head still 2 Tell them to keep eye still 3 Give victim pad to cover injured eye,keep other eye closed 4 Call emergency services Notes: DO NOT touch or rub eye or contact lens \NewEntry Fainting Cause: Symptoms: Before losing consciousness,victim may complain of; *Lightheadedness *Weakness *Nausea *Skin pale & clammy Treatment: If person begins to feel faint,they should; -lean forward -lower head toward knees(as head lowered below heart,blood flows to brain) What to do if someone becomes unconscious: 1 Keep victim lying down with head lowered & legs elevated 2 Loosen tight clothes 3 Apply cool,damp cloths to face & neck Notes: In most cases,victim will regain consciousness shortly after being placed in this position After victim regains consciousness,do not let them get up until questioned(Who are you?,Where are you?,Do you know what day it is?) to be sure they have completely recovered \NewEntry Fever Cause: *Bacterial/viral infection *Overactive thyroid gland *Body fluid loss *Excessive head heat *Heart attack *Lymphoma tumour Symptoms: Body temp over 37'C/98.6'F Treatment: 1 Remove clothes 2 Bath in or sponge down repeatedly with cool/tepid water 3 Take aspirin unless doctor advises otherwise Notes: All fevers should be reported to doctor Long term,very high fever can cause brain damage DO NOT give aspirin to child under 12 years \NewEntry Fever Cause: Symptoms: *Raised temp under tongue *Skin pallor *Victim feels chilled Later *Sweating *Headache *Aches & pains *Higher temp Treatment: 1 Make victim as comfortable as possible,ie in bed with light covers 2 Give cool drinks 3 Adult takes 2 paracetamol,children as recommended (not aspirin) Notes: \NewEntry Fishhook Removal Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: If point of hook lies near skin surface; 1 Grasp hook shaft with pliers 2 Turn hook & push point/barb out through skin 3 Cut off barb close to skin 4 Pull out hook 5 Clean wound with soap & water 6 See doctor asap Notes: Seek medical help immediately if; *Hook embedded in eyeball *Hook deeply embedded *Tetanus shots not up to date.Have it within 2 days if you need tetanus booster *Signs of INFECTION develop \NewEntry Food Posioning-Acute(Staphylococcal) & Salmonella Cause: Bacteria in reheated or half cooked food Symptoms: *Nausea,vomitting & diarrhoea *Abdominal pain *Headache *SHOCK *Fever(Salmonella) *Acute takes 2-6 hours to develop,Salmonella takes 1-2 days Treatment: 1 Give victim plenty of water to drink 2 Once stomach settled,give jelly, blancmange,dry biscuits or clear soup If abdominal pain,blood in stools or severe symptoms lasting over 3 days-call doctor Notes: DO NOT give victim milky drinks-tea/coffee or acidic drinks-fruit juices/squashes Food Poisoning Prevention -Ensure frozen meat/poultry fully defrosted before cooking -Cook meat/poultry/eggs/fish fully to kill bacteria -DO NOT keep food warm for long periods -Wash hands before preparing -Wear gloves/plaster any cuts \NewEntry Freeing Trapped Limbs Cause: Fingers,arms,legs may get caught in bottles,jars,pipes Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Stay calm 2 Don't force limb-this may make it swell & more difficult to remove 3 Relax limb.Relaxation alone may enable you to free it 4 If possible,elevate limb 5 Applying ice around exposed area may reduce any swelling & allow limb to be released 6 If ice doesn't work,dribble soapy water or cooking oil on limb & turn it or object so you "unscrew" rather than pulling out directly Notes: Call emergency services if unable to free trapped limb \NewEntry Frostbite Cause: Freezing of body tissues.Usually occurs in exposed areas of body,affecting superficial or deep tissues.Quite serious.Water in body's cells freezes/swells,damaging & destroying them.Can results in loss of fingers,hands,arms,toes,feet,legs Symptoms: *Lack of feeling in area *Waxy skin appearance *Cold to touch & discoloured (flushed,white,yellow,blue) Treatment: 1 Handle very gently & DO NOT rub affected area 2 Warm area by soaking in water no warmer than 100-105'F,using thermometer to check water temperature.DO NOT let affected body part touch bottom or sides of container holding water 3 Leave frostbitten area in water until red & feels warm 4 Bandage area with dry,sterile dressing, placing cotton or gauze between frostbitten fingers/toes 5 Avoid breaking blisters & seek medical attention quickly Notes: \NewEntry Head Injuries Cause: Most bumps on the head are minor & heal as easily as anywhere else Symptoms: Head injuries that cause cuts often bleed heavily because blood vessels of scalp close to surface.This bleeding alarming,but not always a severe injury Head injuries that do not cause visible external bleeding may have caused life-threatening bleeding & swelling inside skull.Anyone experiencing a head injury should be watched carefully for 24 hours for signs of severe head injury Treatment: 1 Replace displaced skin 2 If bleeding,apply dressing & firm pressure directly over wound.If blood soaks through,apply additional cloths over first.Secure dressing with bandage 3 Lay victim down with head/shoulders slightly raised 4 If victim becomes unconscious for 3+ mins place in RECOVERY POSITION call emergency services & prepare to RESUSCITATE Notes: Prevention * Always wear seat belt when in motor vehicles.Use child car seats * Always wear helmet while biking,motorcycling & skating * Don't dive into shallow or unfamiliar water \NewEntry Heart Attack Cause: Blockage of branch of coronary artery Part of heart muscle dies-if large part,victim unlikely to survive.If small part,recovery possible Symptoms: *Sudden crushing chest pain,spreading to left arm *Conviction victim is dying *Faintness & falling *Heavy sweating *Pale skin,blueness at lips *Weak,fast pulse,may be irregular *Breathlessness *Sudden loss of consciousness Treatment: 1 If conscious,help victim into half sitting position 2 Support head,neck & shoulders 3 If victim has tablets/aerosol,assist administration 4 Reassure victim & help to relax 5 Call emergency services/doctor immediately stating victim had heart attack 6 Keep victim rested 7 Check PULSE & BREATHING 8 Give one aspirin tablet,if available In victim becomes unconscious place in RECOVERY POSITION & monitor PULSE/BREATHING If breathing stops,give mouth-to-mouth/ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION If pulse stops start chest compression (CPR) Notes: DO NOT allow victim to move DO NOT give anything to eat/drink \NewEntry Heat Cramps Cause: Overexposure to heat & combination of fluid & salt loss from heavy sweating,usually after strenuous exercise or work outdoors in warm temperatures.Often in legs & abdomen.Indicate more severe problem to come if proper care not given promptly Symptoms: Painful muscle spasms Treatment: 1 Have victim rest comfortably in cool place & provide with cool water or sports drink 2 Stretch muscle gently & massage area 3 Once cramps stop,may resume physical activity,drinking plenty of fluids during & after activity Notes: \NewEntry Heat Exhaustion Cause: Strenuous exercise or work in hot environment.Most common heat-related illness.Victim loses fluid through sweating & bloodflow to skin increases,reducing blood flow to vital organs.Victim goes into mild shock Symptoms: *Low body temperature *Pale/moist/cool skin *Headache *Nausea *Dizziness/weakness *Exhaustion Treatment: Notes: If heat exhaustion allowed to progress,condition will worsen until heat stroke \NewEntry Heat Stroke Cause: Strenuous exercise or work in hot environment.Heat stroke,least common heat-related illness,occurs when heat exhaustion symptoms are ignored.Body systems become overwhelmed by heat.Sweating stops & body can no longer cool itself.Body temperature rises rapidly & brain/vital organs begin fail.Convulsions,coma & death may result Symptoms: *High body temperature *Hot,red,dry skin *Progressive loss of consciousness *Rapid,weak pulse *Rapid,shallow breathing Treatment: 1 Call emergency services immediately if victim's condition so bad you suspect heat stroke 2 Move victim to cool area & give cool water to drink 3 Remove any tight or heavy clothes & cool body however you can;apply cool wet cloths to skin,fan victim,or place ice packs on wrists & ankles,in each armpit & on neck in order to cool large blood vessels 4 DO NOT apply rubbing alcohol-prevents heat loss 5 DO NOT let victim drink too much too quickly-4 ounces every 15 mins ok.If victim vomits,stop giving fluids & position on their side,keep airway clear & monitor breathing/PULSE 6 Keep victim lying down, continue cooling body until medical help arrives Notes: If heat-related illness recognized in early stages,can usually be reversed \NewEntry Hernia Cause: Symptoms: *Abdominal bulge or swelling *Lower groin pain *Vomiting Treatment: 1 Support victim in most comfortable position,often sitting with cushion support 2 Call doctor or emergency services if pain is severe Notes: DO NOT push/press swelling \NewEntry HIV Risk Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Precautions *Avoid contact with spilled blood,including in the eye *Any blood on first aider's skin should be wiped away and washed at earliest possibility *Infection from saliva negligible unless victim bleeding in/around mouth.Use polythene bag with slit cut if ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION needed Notes: Very small risk of infection \NewEntry Hookworms Cause: Infected drinking water or penetrate bare skin,usually feet Symptoms: *Anaemia *Lethargy Treatment: Alcapar/Mintazol Notes: Worms live in intestine,larvae may cause pnuemonia \NewEntry Hyperventilation Cause: Breathing very fast & deep (hyperventilate) causes carbon dioxide (CO2) level in blood drops too low Symptoms: *Numbness/tingling in hands,feet,around mouth *Pounding,racing pulse & anxiety *Feeling you can't get enough air *Lightheadedness *Chest pain *In severe cases,unconsciousness Treatment: If you have hyperventilated before: Ask people to mention if you start to breathe too fast When you notice fast breathing or other signs,slow breathing to one breath every 5 seconds,or slow enough that symptoms subside Notes: Sit down & concentrate on slowing breathing Practice a relaxation technique Breathe in & out of a paper bag held over nose & mouth.This will help bring amount of CO2 in blood back to normal.Continue intermittently for 5-15 mins.Call emergency services if: * hyperventilation occurs in person who isn't appear tense or anxious * anxiety & hyperventilation are frequent & interfere with daily activities \NewEntry Hypothermia Cause: Body cools as warming mechanisms fail.If proper care not promptly administered, victim may die.Body temperature drops below 95'F,PULSE becomes erratic,stops & victim dies Symptoms: *Shivering *Slow,irregular pulse *Numbness *Glassy stare *Apathy along with decreasing levels of consciousness People can develop hypothermia even when temperature only moderately cold.Elderly in poorly heated homes,homeless,ill or those with certain medical conditions more susceptible to hypothermia.Anyone submerged in cold water or remaining in wet clothes for prolonged period may develop hypothermia Treatment: If victim may have hypothermia,call emergency services immediately.Care for life-threatening problems.Remove wet clothes,dry victim & warm body gradually by wrapping in blankets.Move to warm place.Use hot water bottles or heating pads to help rewarm body,but put barrier,like blanket,towel or clothes,between heat source & victim to keep from burning them.DO NOT warm victim too quickly & DO NOT immerse victim in warm water.Handle victim gently.In cases of severe hypothermia,victim may be unconscious.Monitor BREATHING & PULSE until medical help arrives Notes: \NewEntry Indirect Pressure-Pressure Points Cause: Symptoms: Used when direct pressue not possible/effective to stop severe bleeding Treatment: For arm Trace straight down inside of upper arm & fell for pulse in artery.Apply pressure until blood flow reduced For leg Lay victim down with knee bent & feel for pressure point where artery crosses pelvic bone,in centre of groin crease.Apply pressure until blood flow reduced Notes: DO NOT apply pressure for more than 10 mins NEVER apply a tourniquet \NewEntry Infection Cause: Symptoms: *Increased pain *Swelling,redness or tenderness *Heat/red streaks extending from area *Discharge of pus *Fever of 100'F or higher with no other cause Treatment: Notes: \NewEntry Infectious Hepatitis Cause: Spread through faeces/urine.Enters through cuts/sores or drinking water Symptoms: *Yellowish skin *Nausea *Appetite loss *Abdominal pain Treatment: Rest Notes: \NewEntry Insect Stings Cause: Symptoms: Most sting reactions not allergic *Local pain *Swelling *Redness at site of sting.Some extension of swelling expected Treatment: 1 Remove sting using fine tweezers-grasp sting below poison sac to avoid releasing more poison 2 Apply cold compress to relieve pain/minimize swelling 3 Contact doctor if pain/swelling persist Notes: If stung in mouth/throat give victim ice to suck or cold water to sip and contact emergency services immediately \NewEntry Jellyfish Stings Cause: Symptoms: *Pain & hive-like swelling *If numerous & large amount of poison released,may be; -Shortness of breath -Nausea -Stomach cramps *In severe cases; -Muscle cramps -Fainting -Vomiting -Difficulty breathing Treatment: 1 Rinse area immediately with sea water(DO NOT use fresh water,alcohol or rub sand-this releases more poison 2 Splash vinegar,rubbing alcohol or meat tenderizer dissolved in saltwater on area to neutralize poison 3 Remove attached tentacles carefully.Protect hand with towel & apply paste of sand or baking soda & saltwater to area.Scrape tentacles off with towel or edge of credit card 4 Apply calamine lotion to relieve pain & itching If stung by Portuguese man-of-war jellyfish,scrape stinging tentacles off with sand & seek medical help immediately Notes: Call emergency services if signs of severe ALLERGIC REACTION develop soon after being stung by jellyfish: *Wheezing,difficulty breathing *Swelling around lips,tongue or face or significant swelling around sting(e.g.entire arm or leg swollen) *If swelling around site of jellyfish sting *If skin around sting becomes discoloured *If over-the-counter pain medications unable to control pain *Call doctor to talk about adrenaline kits or allergy shots (immunotherapy) for jellyfish venom if serious allergic reaction \NewEntry Leptospirosis Cause: Rodents/infected water,through cuts/sores/drinking water Symptoms: *Jaundice look *Lethargy *Fever Treatment: Procane penicillin,Tetracycline Notes: \NewEntry Malaria Cause: Saliva of mosquito Symptoms: *Recurrent fever *Sweats but victim feels chilled & shivers *Variants cause headaches,malaise & vomiting *Leaves victim weak Treatment: Many preventitive drugs Notes: Affects 200 million people worldwide,killing 1 million people each year in Africa alone \NewEntry Meningitis Cause: Can develop in a few hours Symptoms: *Fever *Vomiting,appetite loss *Headache *Sensitivity to light *Neck stiffness *Convulsions *Red/purple blood spots (purpuric rash) Treatment: Call emergency services immediately Check rash by lightly pressing side of glass against it-if it does not disappear under the pressure it is not purpuric Notes: \NewEntry Miscarriage Cause: Various Symptoms: *Cramp-like pain in lower abdomen/pelvic area *SHOCK *Sudden,heavy vaginal bleeding *Discharge of foetus Treatment: 1 Reassure mother 2 Help her to get comfortable 3 Obtain sanitary towel/pad for mother 4 Monitor & record BREATHING & PULSE every 10 mins 5 Retrieve any expelled material for later medical investigation,keeping from mother's view Notes: Other reasons for vaginal bleeding; -Heavy period -Induced abortion -Ectopic pregnancy (egg wrongly develops in falopian tube)-life threatening condition \NewEntry Mouth to Mouth/Artificial Ventilation Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: With victim lying flat on back; 1 Remove obstacles from mouth 2 Open AIRWAY by tilting head back 3 Pinch victim's nose closed 4 Take a full breath,place lips over victim's mouth (for babies,cover baby's mouth and nose) 5 Blow into victim's mouth until chest rises,taking about 2 secs to inflate 6 Remove your lips & allow victim's chest to deflate,about 4 secs 7 Repeat once & check circulation/PULSE If there is a pulse/no breathing,continue & check pulse after every 10 breaths If breathing returns,place victim in RECOVERY POSITION If no pulse & no other recovery (skin colour,swallowing,coughing or breathing) start CPR If chest does not rise,check AIRWAY is open Notes: \NewEntry Moving Victim Cause: Only when medical help not available or immediate danger to life: *Busy road where traffic cannot be stopped *Dangerous/collapsing building *Fumes/gas danger Symptoms: Treatment: If must move: 1 Assess all injuries & support injured limbs 2 Move victim in exactly same position initially found Notes: \NewEntry Nails (Blood Under) Cause: Finger/toenails often get crushed Symptoms: Injuries usually aren't serious,but if bleeding under nail,pressure can be painful Treatment: To relieve throbbing & pain make hole in nail to drain blood.You may feel squeamish about trying this at home,but it is the same thing a health professional would do Draining helpful only if there is severe,throbbing pain(you can feel pulse beating under nail) that is bad enough to prevent sleep * Apply ice & elevate injured area soon after injury to minimize swelling & relieve pain * Acetaminophen will also ease discomfort * To make hole in nail & relieve throbbing: - Straighten paper clip & heat tip in flame until red hot - Place tip of paper clip on nail & let it melt through.No need to push.This will not be painful,because nail has no nerves.Thick nails may take several tries - Relieve Pressure.When hole complete,blood will escape & pain will be relieved - Soak finger 3 times a day in half-&-half mixture of hydrogen peroxide & warm water - If pressure builds up again in few days,repeat procedure,using same hole Notes: Consult medical professional if: * victim won't let you try procedure * signs of INFECTION appear * Signs of more serious injury,see STRAINS,SPRAINS & FRACTURES \NewEntry Nosebleed Cause: Nose injury,strenuous activity,high blood pressure,exposure to high altitude,blowing nose too hard Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Sit down with head held forward 2 Lean slightly forward to prevent blood running into throat 3 Tell victim to breathe through mouth & not speak,sniff,spit or swallow 4 If blood coming from one nostril,press firmly at top of that nostril,just below ridge 5 If both nostrils bleeding,pinch nostrils together for at least 10 mins 6 If bleeding continues,apply pressure in 10 min bursts 7 If bleeding after 30 mins take/send victim to hospital 8 If bleeding stops,tell victim to rest for several hours Notes: If heavy bleeding persists or nosebleeds recur frequently,consult doctor \NewEntry Period Pain Cause: Common,not usually serious Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Use painkillers(Ibuprofen,Aspirin,Codeine) 2 When severe,take hot bath,relax in bed with hot water bottle Notes: \NewEntry Poison-Absorption Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Call emergency services immediately If poison like dry or wet chemicals get on skin,flush area with large amounts of water & continue flushing area until help arrives.If you have had a run-in with poison ivy,poison oak or poison sumac,no need to call for medical help.Wash affected area with soap & water.If you develop rash,put paste of baking soda & water on area several times a day or use anti-itch lotion or antihistamine to relieve itchiness.Be aware some people have ALLERGIC REACTIONS to over-the-counter drugs to stop itching-use caution & if you have doubts,talk to doctor Notes: See doctor if condition gets worse,affecting large areas of body or face \NewEntry Poison-Carbon Monoxide(CO) Cause: Car exhaust fumes/coal burning fires Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Remove victim from source of toxic fumes to fresh air 2 Check BREATHING 3 Perform RESUSCITATION if necessary 4 Place victim in RECOVERY POSITION 5 Call emergency services Notes: CO colourless,odourless & poisonous gas \NewEntry Poison-General Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Notes: Poison is a substance that causes injury or illness when it gets into a person's body.4 ways a person can be poisoned: ingested (swallowed) inhaled (breathed) absorbed (absorbed through skin) injected (injected body) Ingested poisons-foods,alcohol,medication,household/garden items & certain plants Inhaled poisons-gases,like carbon monoxide from car exhaust,carbon dioxide from sewers & chlorine from a pool,or fumes from household products-glue,paint,cleaners or drugs Absorbed poisons enter body through skin;they may come from plants,fertilizers or pesticides Injected poisons enter body through bites or stings of insects,spiders,ticks,marine life,snakes & other animals or medications injected with a hypodermic needle \NewEntry Poison-Ingested (Swallowed) Cause: Symptoms: *Nausea *Vomiting *Diarrhoea *Chest/abdominal pain *Difficulty breathing *Changes in consciousness *Seizures *Burns around lips/tongue/on skin Treatment: 1 Check no poison left in mouth.If vomit in mouth roll victim on side & allow vomit to drain away 2 Place 2 fingers under chin,other hand on forehead & tilt head well back 3 Check AIRWAY & BREATHING 4 Place in RECOVERY POSIITION 5 Call emergency services .If victim swallowed poison,determine what type,how much & when.If you find container,take to telephone when you make call.Do not give anything to eat/drink unless advised.If unsure what poison was & victim vomits,save some so that hospital may analyze/determine what it is Notes: If victim conscious and lips burned,give frequent sips of cold water/milk \NewEntry Poison-Injection Cause: Symptoms: Sting/Bites Treatment: If stung by insect,remove stinger by scraping away from skin with fingernail/plastic card Wash area with soap & water,cover to keep clean & apply ice to reduce pain & swelling If victim has trouble BREATHING,they may be experiencing ALLERGIC REACTION & going into anaphylactic shock.You must call emergency services immediately or victim's AIRWAY may constrict,preventing breathing & killing them Notes: \NewEntry Poison-Marine Life Cause: Symptoms: Stings from some marine life (sting rays,sea anemones,jellyfish) cause sickness Treatment: If stung,soak affected area in salt water & apply paste of baking soda or meat tenderizer or even ice quickly to reduce swelling If unsure what stung,have history of allergic reactions to marine life stings,are stung on face/neck or are having difficulty breathing,call emergency services immediately Notes: \NewEntry Poison-Scorpions Cause: Few species of scorpions deadly.Live in dry regions of SW U.S.& Mexico,under rocks,logs & bark of certain trees.Mostly nocturnal If stung by scorpion,call emergency services unless positive it is not poisonous Symptoms: *Nausea *Vomiting *Difficulty breathing/swallowing *Sweating & salivating profusely *Severe pain in bite/sting area *Mark indicating bite/sting & swelling Treatment: If you suspect you have been stung by scorpion,wash wound,apply ice to area & call emergecy services immediately Notes: Antivenins,medications that block effects of the poison,are available \NewEntry Poison-Smoke Inhalation Cause: Smoke from fire Symptoms: Irritates vocal cords,closing airway Treatment: 1 Remove victim from source of smoke to fresh air if possible 2 Check BREATHING/AIRWAY 3 Perform ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION if necessary 4 Check for/treat BURNS 5 Call emergency services Notes: \NewEntry Poison-Spiders Cause: 2 spiders in U.S.have bites that can make you seriously ill or kill: Black widow spider-black with reddish hourglass shape on underside of body Brown recluse spider-light brown with dark brown,violin-shaped marking on top of body Both like dark places & bites usually occur on arms/hands of people rummaging in dark garages/attics or wood piles Symptoms: *Nausea *Vomiting *Difficulty breathing/swallowing *Sweating & salivating profusely *Severe pain in bite/sting area *Mark indicating bite/sting & swelling Treatment: If you suspect you have been bitten by black widow or brown recluse,wash wound,apply ice to area & call emergency services immediately Notes: Antivenins,medications that block effects of poison,are available \NewEntry Polomyelitis Cause: Contaminated drinking water Symptoms: Paralysis Treatment: Hot packs on muscles,rest Notes: \NewEntry Prickly Heat Cause: Heavy sweating/rubbing clothes blocks sweat glands Symptoms: Skin irritation Treatment: 1 Remove clothes 2 Wash body 3 Replace dry clothes Notes: More liquid can make worse \NewEntry Pulse Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Wrist Rest fingers lightly at front of wrist,1cm from thumb side at lower forearm end Neck Turn face to side,slide fingers from Adam's apple into groove alongside,press gently Baby Feel with two fingers on inside of upper arm Notes: Pulse rate: Normal adult 60-80 beats/min(72 average) Young children 90-140 beats/min Increases with excitement \NewEntry Rabies Cause: Symptoms: *Irritability *Dislike of light *Paralysis *Water aversion Treatment: 1 Call emergency services immediately 2 Cleanse by washing for at least 5 mins 3 Dress wounds Notes: Untreatable without vaccine Often fatal \NewEntry Recovery Position Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Kneel to one side 2 Straighten nearest arm of victim & tuck under their body 3 Bring farthest arm across chest,holding palm of hand against victim's nearest cheek 4 Keeping palm against cheek,raise knee furthest from you,pulling gently to turn victim toward you 5 On the side to which the victim's head turned,ensure knee remains at right angles to body 6 Push head back to ensure clear AIRWAY & check BREATHING Notes: \NewEntry Response Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: Use AVPU code to check level of response; A-alertness V-responds to voice P-responds to pain U-Unresponsive Notes: \NewEntry RICE Treatment Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 REST-Avoid using affected part to avoid further discomfort or injury.Gradually rebuild exercise program once injury has healed 2 ICE-Apply ice (bags with crushed ice,cold packs) to injured area for first 24-48 hours to prevent/reduce swelling 3 COMPRESSION-Wrap elastic bandage around injured area to secure ice in place.Do not wrap so tightly that circulation cut.After 10-15 mins,loosen bandage & remove ice.Ice may be reapplied 15-20 mins every 1 or 2 hours for first 6 hours after injury.As long as injury swelling,continue to apply ice 3-4 times a day 4 ELEVATION-Elevate injured area above heart to slow bloodflow to injury Notes: \NewEntry Ringworm (Tinea cruris) Cause: Like athletes foot,caused by fungal infection which thrives in warm,moist areas of body Symptoms: Treatment: Dust area with powdered arrowroot/cornmeal,or solution of 1 part tea tree oil to 2 parts almond oil,twice daily Notes: \NewEntry Severed Limb Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Control blood loss by direct pressure & raising injured limb,or by INDIRECT PRESSURE 2 Apply dressing to wound & bandage 3 Treat for SHOCK 4 Call emergency services-state amputation & whether injured limb is recovered 5 Wrap recovered limb in kitchen film/plastic bag.Cover in fabric/cloth & place in container of crushed ice. DO NOT use cotton wool DO NOT wash severed limb DO NOT allow limb in direct contact with ice 6 Mark container with time & victim name Notes: DO NOT apply a tourniquet \NewEntry Shock Cause: Sudden illness or injury.When circulatory system unable to get enough blood to vital organs,body goes into shock.Mild injury can lead to shock Symptoms: Initially *Blue-grey skin & lips *Rapid pulse *Sweating,cold,clammy skin Later *Weakness/giddiness *Weak pulse *Thirst,nausea or vomiting *Rapid,shallow breathing Eventually *Restlessness *Gasping for air *Unconsciousness *Cardiac arrest Shock life-threatening.Prompt treatment can save lives Treatment: 1 Lay victim down on blanket & elevate legs 12 inches or more.If injury to head,neck or chest,keep legs flat.If victim vomits,roll to one side & fluids drain from mouth.Use care if there may be SPINAL injury 2 Control bleeding & splint fractures 3 Loosen clothing 4 Call emergency services 5 Keep victim warm,but not hot.If victim in hot place,keep them cool 6 Take & record BREATHING,PULSE & RESPONSE every 10 mins 7 Comfort & reassure victim to relieve anxiety-be prepared to RESUSCITATE Notes: DO NOT leave victim alone DO NOT allow them to eat,move,drink or smoke \NewEntry Skull Fracture Cause: Symptoms: *Wound/bruise on head *Soft/depressed area on head *Decreasing consciousness/unconsciousness *Clear fluid/watery blood leaking from nose/ear *Blood in white of eye *Asymmetrical head/face shape Treatment: 1 If unconscious,open AIRWAY,check BREATHING & PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE.Place in RECOVERY POSITION 2 Lie conscious victim down,with head & shoulders raised 3 If discharge from ear,ensure ear is lower & cover with dressing 4 Control scalp bleeding & other injuries 5 Call emergency services 6 Monitor & record breathing & pulse every 10 mins Notes: \NewEntry Slipped Disc Cause: Usually lower back,inner pulp of disc squeezed out/pressing on spinal cord nerves Symptoms: *Low back/neck pain *May be in buttock or back of leg *Lower back muscle spasms *Numbness in leg/foot Treatment: Lie victim on firm surface (mattress on floor) with shoulders/hips/ankles level Take painkillers (Aspirin/Ibuprofen) Notes: If symptoms persist call doctor \NewEntry Snake Bites Cause: Symptoms: *Pain/swelling/redness *1/2 puncture wounds *Vision may deteriorate *Nausea/vomitting *Breathing problems *Increased salivation & sweating Treatment: 1 Victim to lie down/rest,slow heart down,reduce poison absorption 2 Clean wound 3 Lightly compress limb above wound with bandage 4 Get to hospital asap 5 Monitor BREATHING & prepare to RESUSCITATE Catch snake if possible-note poison is still active even in dead snake Notes: DO NOT -Let victim move -Elevate limb -Cut wound/suck out poison -Apply tourniquet \NewEntry Snow Blindness Cause: Symptoms: *Eyes sensitive to glare *Blinking/squinting *Gritty feel *Vision has red/pink hue Treatment: 1 Get into dark 2 Blindfold eyes 3 Apply cool cloth to forehead Notes: Self correcting \NewEntry Sprains Cause: Symptoms: *Joint begins to swell immediately *May turn black/blue due to escaped blood from torn blood vessels *Victim may experience excruciating, shooting pains due to many nerves injured Treatment: 1 RICE treatment 2 Thermotherapy(applying moist heat)promotes healing but should not be applied to muscle or ligament injury for at least 24 hours as heat will increase swelling.After swelling gone,alternate cold compresses & moist heat to injury 3 To treat injury with warm,wet packs,place water-dampened towel in microwave oven for about 30 secs.Check to make sure towel not too hot before placing on skin.If microwave oven not available,run towel under very hot tap water,wring out & apply to injury 4 A sprained arm should be placed in sling Notes: Sprains take about 6-8 weeks to heal \NewEntry Strains Cause: Injury to muscle or tendon Symptoms: Treatment: 1 At time of injury,begin RICE treatment 2 For lower back strain,rest may bring relief.If not,alternate cold compresses with moist heat,allowing rest between treatments Notes: \NewEntry Strangulation Cause: Unconsciouness/death may result Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Call emergency services immediately 2 Relieve constriction by supporting victim 3 Remove/cut ligature 4 Check BREATHING 5 Perform RESUSCITATION & place in RECOVERY POSITION as necessary Notes: \NewEntry Stroke Cause: Interuption of blood supply to brain due to blood clot or ruptured artery Symptoms: *Sudden,severe headache *Confusion *Sudden/gradual loss of consciousness *Weakness/paralysis,often on one side of body; -drooping,dribbling mouth -slurred speech -loss of limb power/movement -unequal pupil size -loss of lowel/bladder control Treatment: Unconscious victim; 1 Open AIRWAY,check BREATHING & PULSE, prepare to RESUSCITATE. Place in RECOVERY POSITION 2 Monitor & record breathing,pulse & RESPONSE every 10 mins 3 Loosen clothing Call emergency services Conscious victim; Lay victim down with head/shoulders slightly raised & supported.Incline head to one side and place cloth to absorb dribbling Call emergency services Notes: DO NOT give victim anything to eat/drink \NewEntry Teeth-Knocked Out Cause: Symptoms: Upper front permanent teeth are most common teeth to be completely knocked out Treatment: Knocked out permanent/adult teeth should be retrieved & placed back into their sockets(reimplanted) quickly & kept in place using a pad held between top & bottom teeth.Most important variable affecting reimplantation is amount of time tooth is out of socket.Teeth reimplanted within 1 hour of accident frequently reattach to sockets DO NOT replace knocked out baby/milk/primary teeth If cannot replace tooth, keep moist in clean water/milk & bring to dentist quickly Notes: Over-the-counter medications like Acetaminophen (TYLENOL) or Ibuprofen (ADVIL) are normally sufficient for pain relief.Chlorhexidine (PERIDEX) mouth rinse may be prescribed to prevent & control gum inflammation(gingivitis).Oral antibiotics & tetanus toxoid injections considered for patients with accompanying significant soft tissue cuts (lacerations) \NewEntry Ticks/Lyme Disease Cause: Symptoms: Treatment: 1 Remove tick quickly without squeezing body as this can cause it to inject harmful bacteria.Grasp tick with tweezers close to mouthparts & gently/firmly pull until it releases hold.Place tick in container for later analysis 2 Disinfect bite with alcohol/antiseptic 3 Contact doctor Check bite occasionally for 2 weeks for Lyme disease: *red rash around bite (bull's eye shape,diameter increases daily) *fever *chills *severe headaches *dizziness *nausea *sore throat *fatigue *muscle/joint aches Notes: May experience one or all these symptoms,so Lyme disease can be mistaken for other illnesses.Consult doctor if in doubt.Can be treated with antibiotics in early stages.If not diagnosed soon after acquisition,permanent arthritis may result \NewEntry Toothache Cause: Usually decayed tooth Symptoms: *Throbbing indicates INFECTION Treatment: 1 Take painkillers 2 Lie victim down/propped up with pillows if more comfortable 3 Hold hot water bottle wrapped in cloth next to face,or soak cotton wool in oil of cloves & hold against tooth 4 See dentist Notes: Sinusitis & ear infection often mistaken for toothache \NewEntry Travel Sickness Cause: Caused by cotinuous,repetitive body movement during travel Symptoms: *Yawning *Deep/rapid breathing *Salivaton *Nausea *Pallor *Abdomnal discomfort *Sweating *Vomitting *Headache *Dizziness *Fatigue Treatment: 1 Get into fresh air 2 Sit with head tited backwards 3 Fix eyes on unmoving point i.e.the horizon if on a boat Notes: \NewEntry Trench Foot Cause: Prolonged wet/damp conditions Symptoms: *Feet white & cold *Pins & needles *Alternate numbness/sharp pain *Red/swell/blister on rewarming Treatment: 1 Dry feet,leave blisters intact 2 Elevate feet & apply gentle warmth DO NOT massage feet Notes: Prevent with exercise/keep dry \NewEntry Typhoid (Enteric Fever) Cause: Salmonella bacteria Symptoms: *Sudden high temp *Headache *Abdominal pain *Fever *Appetite loss *Limb pain *Delirium Treatment: Antibiotics Notes: \NewEntry Typhus (Group of diseases) Cause: Spread by insects-fleas,mites & ticks Symptoms: *Headache *Constipation *Collapse *Back pain *Coughing *Fever,delerium & red rash follow May be weak PULSE Treatment: Antbiotics,vaccine available Notes: \NewEntry Unconsciousness Cause: *stroke *epilepsy *heat stroke *diabetic coma *insulin shock *head/spinal injury *suffocation *alcohol or drug overdose *shock *bleeding *heart attack Symptoms: Unconscious person completely unaware & unable to make purposeful movements.Fainting brief form of unconsciousness;coma is deep,prolonged state of unconsciousness Fainting usually short loss of consciousness often due to momentary drop in blood flow to brain.Fall/lie down,blood flow is improved & regain consciousness.This lightheadedness is mild form of shock & usually not serious.If happens often,may be more serious problem Dizziness & fainting also brought on by sudden emotional stress or injury Treatment: 1 Open AIRWAY-lift chin & tilt head 2 Check BREATHING & PULSE & prepare to RESUSCITATE 3 Assess & record level of RESPONSE 4 If victim vomits,place in RECOVERY POSITION 5 IF suspected,treat for SPINAL INJURY 6 Examine victim for major bleeding/FRACTURES & treat 7 Look for medical card/tag/bracelet needle marks & smell breath 8 Place in RECOVERY POSITION 9 If unconscious after 3 mins call emergency services 10 Monitor & record breathing,pulse & response every 10 mins If victim awake after 3 mins & recovers after 10 mins,suggest medical advice Notes: DO NOT move victim unless in danger DO NOT make victim sit or stand up DO NOT leave victim unattended DO NOT give anything to eat or drink \NewEntry Yellow Fever Cause: Symptoms: *Headache *Nosebleed *Nausea *Fever *Slow pulse *Pain in neck,arms & back in severe cases Liver damage can lead to jaundice/kidney failure Treatment: Rest-no effective medication Notes: Take vaccine before travelling to Africa,S.America