Hypothermia Exposure to Cold Hypothermia is a condition that comes about when the body's heat regulating mechanism can't cope with the conditions it's working in. The metabolism gets slower, the body temperature drops, and the sufferer becomes drowsy, confused and moves unsteadily. You don't have to feel shivery in order to have hypothermia. It's dangerous, and a doctor and cardiac ambulance should always be called if it's suspected. NEVER ASSUME THAT A HYPOTHERMIA CASUALTY IS DEAD EVEN IF BREATHING AND HEARTBEAT APPEAR ABSENT. Treatment: * If breathing and heartbeat have stopped, begin the A-B-C of resuscitation. * If casualty is breathing but unconscious, place in the recovery position. * Warm patient gradually. Heat the room as well as the casualty. * Place warm material around the victim, covering body, neck and head but not the face. * Remove from cold environment to hospital if necessary. Conscious casualties should be given hot, sweet drinks, NOT ALCOHOL. ------------------ These files may be accessed through the web at http://firstaid.ie.eu.org/ I would like to thank the IEASR for allowing me to convert their pages over to the Pilot. Mary Jo Sminkey maryjo@dogpatch.org http://www.dogpatch.org ------------------ DISCLAIMER: Information in these files is presented in order to impart general information relating to first aid of various injuries and conditions. Such information is not complete and should not be used as a substitute for a consultation or visit with your physician or other health care provider, or as a substiture for actual training in first aid and/or CPR. While all reasonable care has been taken in compiling this information, Mary Jo Sminkey and Irish Emergency Ambulance Services Resource (IEASR) make no warranty as to the information's completeness, reliability or accuracy. Access to and use of the information contained herein is entirely at the risk of the user, Mary Jo Sminkey and IEASR shall not be liable, directly or indirectly to the user or any third party for any damage resulting from the use of the information contained or implied in the Pilot First Aid files.