The underlying cause of heat stroke is connected to the sometimes sudden inability to dissipate body heat through perspiration, especially after strenuous physical activity. This accounts for the excessive rise in body temperature and it is the high fever which can cause permanent damage to internal organs, and can result in death if not treated immediately. Recovery depends on heat duration and intensity. The goal of emergency treatment is to maintain circulation and lower body temperature as quickly as possible.
Heat Stroke is a medical emergency, and the most severe form of heat related illness. Anyone exhibiting the signs and symptoms of Heat Stroke should be rushed to the hospital. Unlike other forms of heat illness, Heat Stroke does not have to be caused by exercise or exertion. High temperatures, lack of body fluids and overexposure to the elements can all bring about Heat Stroke. The very young and old are especially susceptible to the hazards of this heat related illness.
Symptoms
The first sign to look for in a victim of Heat Stroke is red, flushed skin. People who are suffering Heat Stroke, do not sweat, so it is critical that they receive emergency care immediately to relieve their body of heat. Other signs of Heat Stroke include:
A body temperature of 106-degrees or higher
Seizures
Headache
Rapid pulse
Unconsciousness
Headache, nausea, dizziness
Red, dry, very hot skin (sweating has ceased)
Pulse-strong & rapid
Small pupils
Very high fever
May become extremely disoriented
Unconsciousness and possible convulsions
First Aid for Heatstroke or Sunstroke
HEATSROKE IS LIFE THREATENING!
CALL EMS
Remove victim to cooler location, out of the sun
Loosen or remove clothing and immerse victim in very cool water if possible
If immersion isn't possible, cool victim with water, or wrap in wet sheets and fan for quick evaporation
Use cold compresses-especially to the head & neck area, also to armpits and groin
Medical Attention is required continue first aid to lower temp, until medical help takes over Do NOT give any medication to lower fever--it will not be effective and may cause further harm Do NOT use an alcohol rub Do NOT give the victim anything by mouth (even water) Heat illness is a medical emergency once it has begun it is essential to bring it under control ASAP so as to prevent complications. Listed below are the three major types of heat illnesses, detailing their symptoms and treatments. Medical Help should be summoned.
Heat Cramps:
This type of heat injury usually happens after exercise. Most often they happen in people who arent used to the heat, who sweat a lot, or who dont drink enough liquids.
Symptoms
Severe pain and cramps in legs and abdomen
Faintness or dizziness
Weakness
Profuse sweating
Pt Management
First Aid
Increase salt intake by giving salty fluids
Encourage reduction in activities
Move victim to a cool location
Call 911
Heat Exhaustion:
This happens when one is exposed to heat for a prolonged amount of time and causes dehydration. It usually happens in people playing sports, or participating in other outdoor heavy work. The two types of exhaustion that can occur are water depletion and salt depletion. Symptoms
Pale skin
Profuse sweating
Nausea and/or vomiting
Dialation of pupils
Weakness or reduced level of conscienceness
Pt Management
First Aid
Call EMS-911
Move to a cool environment Loosen clothing
Apply ice packs Elevate legs above the heart
Furnish liquids
History
The spread of the West Nile virus in the United States is a major health concern. Since the first reported case in New York in 1999, the mosquito-borne disease has spread across the country.
Transmission
Transmission is a vicious circle. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. The virus gets into the mosquito's salivary glands. Then the mosquito bites a human or an animal, injecting the virus, which can multiply and cause illness.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Mild infections:
Flu-like symptoms
Fever
Headaches and body aches
Skin rash
Swollen lymph glands
Severe infections Signs:
Higher fever
Neck stiffness Disorientation
Coma
Paralysis
Convulsions and muscle weakness
Death
The only test for West Nile virus available checks blood for the presence of antibodies, not the virus itself.
WEST NILE VIRUS
SMALL POX
What Is Smallpox?
Smallpox is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through the air and infects 30% of the people who are exposed to it. Once infected, there is no cure. None of our current antiviral medications is effective. Smallpox can spread from person to person and through infected blankets, linens, and clothing.
Experts consider it a likely weapon of choice for use in a bioterrorist attack.
Symptoms don't start until about 12 days after exposure to the virus. At first, it's like the flu -- causing an under-the-weather feeling of fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, and backache. Then, severe abdominal pain and disorientation can set in, as small, round sores erupt all over the skin. About 30% of people who become infected will die, and survivors can be left with permanent scars.
Heart Attack Symptoms & Warning Signs
IF YOU THINK YOU'RE HAVING A HEART ATTACK, CALL 9-1-1 OR YOUR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SYSTEM IMMEDIATELY.
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense -- the "movie heart attack," where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:
Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath. This feeling often comes along with chest discomfort. But it can occur before the chest discomfort.
Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
If you or someone you're with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don't wait longer than a few minutes (no more than 5) before calling for help. Call 9-1-1... Get to a hospital right away.
Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services staff can begin treatment when they arrive -- up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. The staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. You'll also get treated faster in the hospital if you come by ambulance.
If you can't access the emergency medical services (EMS), have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If you'rethe one having symptoms,don't drive yourself.
How a Heart Attack is Determined
A doctor who's studied the results of several tests must diagnose a heart attack. The doctor will review the patient's complete medical history, and provide a physical examination. The use an electrocardiogram (e-lek"tro-KAR'de-o-gram) (EKG) to discover any abnormalities caused by damage to the heart. An EKG is a medical device that makes a graphical record of the heart's electrical activity. Use of blood test are performed to detect abnormal levels of certain enzymes in the bloodstream. Blood tests confirm (or refute) suspicions raised in the early stages of evaluation that may occur in an emergency room, intensive care unit or urgent care setting. These tests are sometimes called heart damage markers or cardiac enzymes.
Stroke Symptoms / Warning Signs
IF YOU NOTICE ONE OR MORE OF THESE SIGNS, DON'T WAIT. STROKE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. CALL 911 OR YOUR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES. GET TO A HOSPITAL RIGHT AWAY!
Learn the warning signs of stroke:
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
Be prepared for an emergency.
Keep a list of emergency rescue service numbers next to the telephone and in your pocket, wallet or purse.
Find out which area hospitals are primary stroke centers that have 24-hour emergency stroke care.
Know (in advance) which hospital or medical facility is nearest your home or office.
Take action in an emergency.
Not all the warning signs occur in every stroke. Don't ignore signs of stroke, even if they go away!
Check the time. When did the first warning sign or symptom start? You'll be asked this important question later.
If you have one or more stroke symptoms that last more than a few minutes, don't delay! Immediately call 9-1-1 or the emergency medical service (EMS) number so an ambulance (ideally with advanced life support) can quickly be sent for you.
If you're with someone who may be having stroke symptoms, immediately call 9-1-1 or the EMS. Expect the person to protest -- denial is common. Don't take "no" for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action.
Anthrax Questions & Symptoms
What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is an animal disease that has been around for tens of thousands of years. Rarely, anthrax causes serious disease in humans. The germ is a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis that "seeds" itself by forming long-lasting spores. These spores can survive in the environment for a long time. Grass-eating animals, such as cattle, are most often infected because they can eat spores living in the soil. Animal vaccination - and destruction of infected herds - has drastically reduced the number of infected animals. Even so, anthrax spores continue to be found in soil samples from all over the world.
When anthrax spores get inside the body, they grow rapidly. The germs themselves can cause dangerous infections. Far more dangerous is a substance they produce in the body - anthrax toxin - which helps the bug survive by killing off cells of the immune system. This toxin is so deadly that it can kill even after infection is brought under control.
What symptoms should I watch for?
The symptoms of anthrax infection depend on how a person catches the disease. All forms of anthrax if caught early enough can be cured by prompt antibiotic treatment. However, some anthrax strains developed as biological weapons are resistant to many drugs. Skin infection starts with an itchy bump like a mosquito bite. After a day or two, it forms a small liquid-filled sac. This sac then becomes a painless ulcer with an area of black, dead tissue in the middle. Antibiotic treatment cures this infection. Untreated, it kills about one in five people. The signs of intestinal infection are nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting. This is followed by severe abdominal pain, vomiting of blood, and severe diarrhea. Untreated intestinal anthrax is deadly 25% to 60% of the time. Inhalation anthrax, the most deadly form of the disease, begins with the same symptoms as the flu, including fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. As early as one day after these symptoms appear - but up to weeks later - the symptoms suddenly become much more severe, usually with breathing problems and shock. This form of the disease is often fatal.
How is anthrax treated?
First, anthrax infection has to be identified. This is now much more likely since the CDC began a program to help public-health laboratories rapidly identify germs that might be used in biological warfare or terrorism.
Early treatment is essential. Natural strains of anthrax may be resistant to many antibiotics, but most are sensitive to penicillin. Either of two antibiotics is recommended: doxycycline and Cipro (ciprofloxacin). Because anthrax spores can stay hidden in the lungs for a long time, antibiotic treatment should continue for 60 days. There are reports that some forms of anthrax created as biological weapons are resistant to these drugs, but there is no hard evidence that this is true. In fact, the strain of anthrax in this outbreak appear to be fully sensitive to the antibiotics used to treat this bacteria.
People should NOT stockpile antibiotics. Antibiotic treatment should not be started unless public health authorities have warned of an anthrax outbreak, and even then these drugs can have serious side effects for some people.
More help is on the way. Researchers at Harvard University have invented molecules that work as an antidote for anthrax toxin. One of these molecules also vaccinates against future infection at the same time.
What can I do?
Most people in the U.S. will never be exposed to anthrax. Recent exposures to anthrax appear to have come from letters containing powdered anthrax spores, but there's no cause for panic. Here's what to do if you receive a letter or package that you suspect of containing anthrax or any other dangerous germs:
Do not shake or empty the envelope or package. Do not try to clean up any spilled powder or fluid.
Put the envelope or package into a plastic bag or other container to prevent the contents from leaking out. If you can't find a container, cover the envelope or package with clothing, paper, or a trash can -- and DON'T remove this cover.
Leave the room and close the door. Keep other people from entering the room.
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Call the local police and report the incident. If you are at work, call your building security officer and/or your supervisor.
Make a list of all the people who were in the room when you opened the letter or package. Give this list to the police -- and to local public-health authorities.
Remove contaminated clothing and put it into a plastic bag that can be sealed. Give the bag of contaminated clothing to the Police.
Shower with soap and water as soon as you can. Do not use bleach or disinfectant on your skin.
Do not start taking antibiotics until told to do so by your doctor or by health authorities.
Gas masks or respirators won't do much good once an exposure has taken place -- and it's much more likely that you or your children would be injured by improper use of gas masks than by a terrorist attack.
Only preventive treatment with antibiotics can keep an exposed person from developing anthrax. Anthrax vaccine -- a series of six shots over the course of a year with yearly booster shots -- is not recommended for or available to the public. New treatments and vaccines are under development.
How can I tell the difference between an anthrax infection and the flu?
The early symptoms of inhalation anthrax are the same as those of a mild case of flu. Treatment to prevent anthrax begins only after a person has had a suspected exposure. There is a new quick test that can show whether a person has been exposed to anthrax, but it is not yet widely available. Your doctor, however, should have access to rapid tests that can identify the flu. Here are some differences in symptoms as the illnesses progress:
Shortness of breath is common with anthrax, but unusual with the flu
Vomiting is common with anthrax, but unusual with the flu
Sore throats are uncommon with anthrax, but typical with the flu
Stuffy noses are uncommon with anthrax, but typical with the flu
If you think you have a cold or flu and your symptoms suddenly get much worse -- especially with a severe headache -- seek immediate medical attention.
Can I catch anthrax from someone else?
Anthrax can't be spread from person to person.
Who should I contact in my local area if I'm worried?
Contact your local police department, or call 911, and contact your local health department or your doctor for more information if you think you've been exposed to anthrax. Don't start taking antibiotics unless advised to do so by your doctor or by health authorities.
This Page was Last Updated: June 22, 2009
DAVES EMS HEADQUARTERS
EDUCATION & RESOURCES-2
Coughing hard might save you, at the first sign of what ?
O an asthma attack
O choking
O Concious V-Tach
O Stroke
Coughing hard at the first sign of a heart attack could a save patient's life, Every year one in a 1,000 people in the Western world die from cardiac arrest, the vast majority caused by a sudden problem with the heart's rhythm. In these cases, properly timed and performed coughs can allow the patient to maintain consciousness and even regain an effective heart beat Currently, only one in 10 victims of cardiac arrest survive without serious brain damage.
High-risk patients should therefore be taught how to cough effectively, starting with a single cough every one to two seconds in bouts of five coughs In a study, 115 patients at risk of cardiac arrest were trained to cough at the first sign of an attack and did so on 365 occasions. In 292 cases the symptoms disappeared and only 73 required medical attention. Some doctors already encourage patients to cough when under intensive heart treatment in a hospital.
Choking
Choking occurs when the airway is partially or totally blocked by a swallowed object, i.e. when something goes down the windpipe rather than the food passage. The aim of treatment is to clear the blocked passage.
THE CHOKING VICTIM WILL CLASP THEIR NECK IN AN INSTINCTIVE ACT, WHICH IS NOW RECOGNIZED AS THE UNIVERSAL CHOKING SIGN.
Act Quickly; speed is essential. Brain death can occur in 4-6 minutes.
Treatment:Conscious Adult
* Ask, "Are you choking?" If the victim can speak, cough or breathe, DO NOT INTERFERE - he is not choking.
* If the victim cannot speak, cough or breathe, give upward abdominal thrusts. To do this, stand behind victim and wrap your arms round the waist. Grasp one fist with your other hand and place thumb side of your fist in the mid-line between waist and rib cage. Press fist into abdomen with 4 quick upward and inward thrusts.
* Do not use abdominal thrust when dealing with a pregnant woman or over-weight victim. In these cases use chest thrusts - press on breastbone as in CPR.
* Stand behind victim and place your arms under her armpits to encircle body.
* Grasp one fist with the other hand, and place thumb side on the middle of the breastbone.Press with quick backward thrusts.
* Repeat above sequence. Be persistent. Send for medical aid, call an Ambulance and continue treatment until help arrives.
Self Help
The above technique can be used successfully if a person is choking and alone. Lean over a chair or railing as you act to help release obstruction.
Unconscious Adult
Establish that the patient is unconsciousness.
* "Call for Help". Dial 911 in the U.S. or your Local Emergency Telephone Number.
*Open Airway and begin resuscitation procedures,
*If unsuccessful deliver five upward abdominal thrusts. (if trained)
* Use finger probe in mouth to remove the dislodged foreign body.
*If unsuccessful repeat these sequences. Be persistent.
* Continue treatment until help arrives.
Child (as for adults)
If a child (1-8 years) is choking, proceed as for adult, depending on whether victim is conscious or unconscious.
Infant (up to 1 year)
If an infant is choking, turn infant face downwards supporting the body along your arm with hand supporting head and neck.
*Ensure airway is open.
* Deliver five back blows between the shoulders, then turn over and give five chest thrusts.
*Remove object if visible.
* Do notperform blind finger sweeps in infants and children. When obstruction is removed and infant is still not breathing and has no pulse start CPR.
* Call 911
To prevent further complications, all cases of choking should receive medical inspection even if the first aid measure relieved the obstruction.
EMS DEFINITIONS
"Ambulance" means a motor vehicle or rotary aircraft that is primarily used or designated as available to provide transportation and basic life support, limited advanced life support, or advanced life support.
"Ambulance Operation" means a person licensed to provide emergency medical services and patient transport, for profit or otherwise.
"Emergency" means a condition or situation in which an individual declares a need for immediate medical attention for any individual, or where that need is declared by emergency medical services personnel or a public safety official.
"Emergency Medical Services" means the emergency medical services personnel, ambulances, nontransport prehospital life support vehicles, aircraft transport or treatment of an individual requiring medical first response life support, basic life support, limited advanced life support, or advanced life support.
"Emergency Medical Services personnel" means a medical first responder, emergency medical technician, emergency medical technician specialist, paramedic, or emergency medical services instructor-coordinator.
"Emergency Medical Services Instructor-Coordinator" means an individual licensed under this part to conduct and instruct emergency medical services education program
"Medical First Responder"means an individual who has met the educational requirements of a department approved medical first responder course and who is licensed to provide medical first response life support as part of a medical first response service or as a driver of an ambulance that provides basic life support services only.
"Emergency Medical Technician" means an individual who is licensed by the department to provide basic life support.
"Emergency Medical Technician Specialist"means an individual who is licensed by the department to provide limited advanced life support.
"Paramedic"means an individual licensed under this part to provide advanced life support.
"Emergency Patient"means an individual whose physical or mental condition is such that the A PRUDENT individual is, or may reasonably be suspected or known to be, in imminent danger of loss of life or of significant health impairment.
"Statewide Emergency Medical Services Communications System"means a system that integrates each emergency medical services system with a centrally coordinated dispatch and resource coordination facility utilizing the universal emergency telephone number, 9-1-1, whenthat number is appropriate, or any other designated emergency telephone number, a statewide emergency medical 2-way radio communications network, and linkages with the statewide emergency preparedness communications system.
"Life Support Agency" means an ambulance operation, nontransport prehospital life support operation, aircraft transport operation, or medical first response service.
"Aircraft transport vehicle"means an aircraft that is primarily used or designated as available to provide patient transportation between health facilities and that is capable of providing patient care according to orders issued by the patient's physician.
"Disaster"means an occurrence of imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from a natural or manmade cause, including but not limited to, fire, flood, snow, ice, windstorm, wave action, oil spill, water contamination requiring emergency action to avert danger or damage, utility failure, hazardous peacetime radiological incident, major transportation accident, hazardous materials accident, epidemic, air contamination, drought, infestation, or explosion. Disaster does not include a riot or other civil disorder unless it directly results from and is an aggravating element of the disaster.
"Emergency Medical Services System"means a comprehensive and integrated arrangement of the personnel, facilities, equipment, services, communications, MEDICAL CONTROL, and organizations necessary to provide emergency medical services & TRAUMA CARE within a particular geographic region.
LIVES ARE SAVED WITH FIRST AID TRAINING
It may be a little dramatic but sometimes it true. If you call the emergency medical services to an incident, your actions have started the chain of survival. You have acted to help someone you may not even know. First aid is helping, first aid is making that call, putting a Band-Aid on a small wound, controlling bleeding in large wounds or providing CPR for a collapsed person whose not breathing and heart has stopped beating. You can help yourself, your loved ones and the stranger whose life may depend on you being in the right place at the right time with the right knowledge.
*First aid training, it's the smart thing to do.
*Be ready before an emergency occurs.
*Become trained in first aid now, by contacting your local first aid organization.
*Establish a clear line of communication in your organization/school/home with emergency agencies, local doctor, Hospital, first aid branch, fire brigade, police.
*Assign duties to a specific person in the workplace.
*Brief teachers at school and family members at home.
*Keep a first aid kit up-to-date, ready for use, accessible and well stocked.
*Know how to act in case of special health problems e.g. asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, hemophilia, tetanus immune status.
*Hold regular fire drill exercises at school and work.
*Keep up-to-date personnel records so that next of kin can be notified in case of accident.
*Display CPR and First aid information posters in prominent places. ex. beside fire extinguisher.
*Keep the names of staff trained in CPR beside the phone.
*Don't leave it to others to learn first aid, "Get yourself trained now!"
First Aid Information
Do not use this first aid information resource as a substitute for a first aid course. It is only intended as an information guide for people who would like to know a little more about this subject. I would strongly advise people to take a first aid training course with one of the many organizations in their locality.
"The life you save may be the person you love."
CERTIFICATION LEVELS.
Activation of the EMS System
The EMS team is comprised of the call taker, dispatcher, police officer, first responder, EMT, paramedic, and emergency nurse and physician. The call taker and dispatcher are trained to rapidly determine the location of the emergency and send medical help. The call taker and dispatcher are also trained to offer emergency telephone instructions immediately which include action to take for heart attacks (CPR), choking, and emergency childbirth. They also will provide instructions such as how to control bleeding, gather prescription medicines for medical responders and control the breathing of an unconscious patient. First responder's as the name implies will probably be the first to arrive at the emergency. They are trained in CPR and basic life support. The EMT's and Paramedics will often arrive next and provide basic and advanced care as necessary including transportation to the hospital.
Ambulances Carry Today:
A multitude of equipment is carried on ambulances and special quick response units to bring personnel and equipment to the patient's side rapidly. Ambulances must be licensed by the State’s Department of Health to ensure that they meet equipment and trained staffing requirements. Basic life support include equipment to stabilize fractures, breathing oxygen, airway supplies including suction and manual and automatic external defibrillators, to restore an effective heartbeat. Trained Paramedic’s and EMT’s staff the ambulance which also carries medications, intravenous fluids, advanced airway tubes and EMS Rigs have direct contact with E.R Physician’s for treatment consultation and updating patient conditions while transporting a patient to the local health care facility. Ambulance’s are poistioned in geographic areas where as the nearest ambulance is dispatched to the medical or traumatic emergency.
Radius:The radius is the shorter of the two long bones of the forearm. The other is the ulna. The radius is the bone on the thumb side of the arm. The shaft of the radius has a broad base that joins the lower end of the ulna and the upper bones of the wrist at a large process called the radial styloid. The disk-shaped head of the radius, which is smaller than the base, joins the lower end of the humerus (bone in the upper arm) to form the elbow joint.
Ulna: The ulna is the longer of the two bones of the forearm; the other being the radius. When the palm faces forward, the ulna is the inner bone (the one nearest the body) running down the forearm parallel to the radius. The upper end joins with the radius and extends into a rounded projection that fits around the lower end of the humerus (the upper arm bone) to form the elbow joint. The lower end of the ulna is rounded and forms a joint with the wrist bones and lower end of the radius.
Cervical Vertebrae:The spine is made up of three groups of bones called "vertebrae." The seven "cervical vertebrae" comprise the bony axis of the neck. Although these are the smallest of the vertebrae, their bone tissues are denser than those in any other region of the column. The transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae are distinctive because they have "transverse foramina", which serve as passageways for arteries leading to the brain. Also, the "spinous processes" of the second through the fifth cervical vertebrae are uniquely forked. These processes provide attachments for various muscles. Two of the cervical vertebrae are of special interest. The first vertebra ("atlas") supports and balances the head. It has practically no body or spine and appears as a bony ring with two transverse processes. On its upper surface, the atlas has two kidney-shaped facets that unite with the occipital condyles of the skull. The second vertebra is the "axis," which bears a tooth-like "odontoid process" on its body. This process projects upward and lies in the ring of the atlas. As the head is turned from side to side, the atlas pivots around the odontoid process.
Thoracic Vertebrae: The spine is made up of three groups of bones called "vertebrae." The twelve in the chest area are the "thoracic" vertebrae, which are larger than those in the cervical region. They have long, pointed spinous processes that slope downward, and have facets on the sides of their bodies that join with ribs. Beginning with the third thoracic vertebra and moving down, the bodies of these bones increase in size. This reflects the stress placed on them by the increasing amounts of body weight they bear.
Lumbar Vertebrae: The spine is made up of three groups of bones called "vertebrae." There are five "lumbar vertebrae" in the small of the back (loins). Since the lumbars must support more weight than the vertebrae above them, they have developed larger and stronger bodies. The transverse processes of
these vertebrae project backward at sharp angles, while their short, thick spinous processes are directed nearly horizontally.
Sacrum: The sacrum is a large triangular bone at the base of the lower spine. Its broad upper part joins the lowest lumbar vertebrae and its narrow lower part joins the coccyx or "tail bone". The sides are connected to the iliums (the largest bones forming the pelvis). The sacrum is a strong bone and rarely fractures. The five vertebrae that make up the sacrum are separated in early life, but gradually become fused together between the eighteenth and thirtieth years. The spinous processes of these fused bones are represented by a ridge of tubercles. The sacrum is wedged between the coxal bones of the pelvis and is united to them by fibrocartilage at the sacroiliac joints. The weight of the body is transmitted to the legs through the pelvic girdle at these joints.
Coccyx (or tailbone) is the lowest part of the vertebral column and is attached by ligaments to the margins of the sacral hiatus. When a person is sitting, pressure is exerted on the coccyx, and it moves forward, acting sort of like a shock absorber. Sitting down with too great a force may cause the coccyx to be fractured or dislocated.
Spine, Vertebra and Disk: The spine is a column of bone and cartilage that extends from the base of the skull to the pelvis. It encloses and protects the spinal cord and supports the trunk of the body and the head. The spine is made up of approximately thirty-three bones called "vertebrae." Each pair of vertebrae is connected by a joint which stabilizes the vertebral column and allows it to move. Between each pair of vertebrae is a disk-shaped pad of fibrous cartilage with a jelly-like core, which is called the "intervertebral" disk - or usually just the "disk". These disks cushion the vertebrae during movement. The entire spine encloses and protects the spinal cord, which is a column of nerve tracts running from every area of the body to the brain. The vertebrae are bound together by two long, thick ligaments running the entire length of the spine and by smaller ligaments between each pair of vertebrae. Several groups of muscles are also attached to the vertebrae, and these control movements of the spine as well as to support it. Quasimodo, the central character of Victor Hugo's novel, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," is probably the most famous of all real or fictional sufferers of "kyphosis," an abnormal, backward curvature of the spine.
All information contained here in is for informational purposes only; Site users should attend a credited First Aid Course offered by Local EMS Agencies, American Red Cross or the American Heart Association
All information contained on this site is for educational purposes only; you should attend a First Aid Course that is offered by the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association
Fractures Sprains Strains
As rugged as our bodies are, they are often susceptible to painful and disabling injuries such as strains, sprains, dislocations and fractures. When sudden pressure pulls a bone out of its socket at the joint, the injury is called a dislocation. When a bone actually breaks, it is called a fracture and these may vary in seriousness.
Fractures of the bone are classified in two categories: the simple fracture and the compound fracture, in which the skin is pierced and the flesh and bone are exposed to infection. A bone fracture begins to knit almost as soon as it occurs, so it is important that the bone be set as quickly as possible. If the victim must be moved and no medical help is available, it is also important for a "splint" to be applied to prevent movement of the fractured limb. If a fractured spine is even suspected, it should be place in a splint. A splint is a devise secured to the site of the fracture and may be made of various types of material. In an emergency, a splint may be constructed from a stick of wood or a rolled magazine that is secured to the fracture area.
SPINAL INJURIES
Spine and Vertebrae Spinal injuries are usually caused by one of three types of severe force - "longitudinal compression," "hinging," or "shearing." Longitudinal compression, usually due to a fall from a height, crushes one vertebra lengthwise against another. Hinging, which can occur in a whiplash injury suffered in an automobile accident, subjects the spinal column to sudden, extreme bending movements. Shearing, which may occur when a person is knocked over by a motor vehicle, combines both hinging and rotational (twisting) forces.
Any of these forces can dislocate the vertebrae, fracture them, or rupture the ligaments that bind them together. In severe dislocations and fractures, the vertebrae, accumulated fluid, or a blood clot may press on the spinal cord, or the cord may be torn or even severed. In all of these cases the function of the spinal cord is impaired or destroyed. An unstable injury is one in which there is the possibility that vertebrae will shift and cause damage. Other injuries are called stable.
Damage to the vertebrae and ligaments usually causes severe pain and swelling in the injured area. Damage to the spinal cord may cause a loss of sensation and/or motor function below the injury. Injuries below the neck may cause weakness or paralysis of the legs or in part of the trunk; damage to the cord in the neck may cause weakness or paralysis of all four limbs and the trunk or it may, in some cases, be fatal. Weakness or paralysis is often accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control. Pressure on the spinal cord may cause muscle weakness or paralysis. It may also cause abnormalities of sensation, such as pain, tingling, or burning.
When spinal injury occurs, the victim should only be moved Emergency Medical Personnel. If it is absolutely necessary to move the victim because of some life-threatening situation such as drowning, or if medical help is not available, get help from at least three or four persons - all of whom understand the need for keeping the victim's head and trunk as rigid as possible without any bending or side-to-side motions - and slide a large board, door or other solid object under the back for support. If helpers have not been trained in first aid, it may be necessary to practice on an uninjured person before trying to move the victim.
After the victim is placed on the board, put a small wad of cloth or a towel in the space under the neck. Do not use a pillow, because it is too thick. You may put rolled-up clothing, blankets, or some other soft, supportive material around the head, neck, and shoulders to prevent the victim from moving. Anchor these materials with stones or bricks. A helper can steady the head, neck, and shoulders while the victim is being transported to a hospital. Trunk Region Victims who fall a great distance and land on their feet frequently fracture their heels, ankles, or lower bones of the spine. Symptoms of spinal cord injury include back pain, weakness, numbness or tingling below the injury, loss of bladder or bowel control, or low blood pressure. If a fracture of the trunk region is suspected, the victim must be completely immobilized to avoid damage to the spinal cord. The victim should be positioned on a firm litter or backboard and secured so that no motion of the back is possible.
Treat all neck and back pain as a possible spinal injury.
All information contained on this site is for educational purposes only; you should
attend a First Aid Course that is offered by the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association
THE HUMAN SPINE
***Do not use this first aid information resource as a substitute for a first aid course. It is only intended as an information guide for people who would like to know a little more about this subject. I would strongly advise people to take a first aid training course with one of the many organizations in their locality.
NAVIGATION MENU
TYPES OF FRACTURES
Oblique Fracture:is broken at an angle across the bone and is usually the result of a sharp angled blow to the bone.
Transverse Fracture:which is broken straight across the bone, is the result of a sharp, direct blow or may be a stress fracture caused, for example, by prolonged running.
Greenstick Fracture:usually occurs in children, whose still soft bones splinter without breaking in two. Sudden force causes only the outer side of the bent bone to break.
Spiral Fracture:refers to a fracture caused by a twisting force that creates an oblique fracture around and through the bone.
WOUNDS
A wound is any damage to the skin or its underlying tissues, caused by an accident, act of violence, or surgery. Wounds in which the skin or mucous membranes are broken are called "open"; those in which they remain intact are "closed." Types and Causes Wounds can be divided into the following broad categories - an "incision"- injury in which the skin is cleanly cut; an "abrasion" - a graze in which surface tissue is scraped away; a "laceration" - a wound in which the skin is torn, such as an animal or human bite; a "penetrating wound" - such as a stab or gunshot wound; and a "contusion" - wound in which the underlying tissues are damaged by a blunt instrument. Soft tissue injuries may include damage to tissue, muscle, bone, blood vessels, and/or nerves. When the wound lies in the thorax or abdomen, internal organs may also be bruised or more severely damaged. Considerable bleeding may occur with little or no visible evidence.
Many penetrating wounds or contusions are deceptive in appearance, showing little external sign of damage but involving serious internal injury. Low-velocity gunshot wounds cause tissue damage all along the path of the projectile. High-velocity gunshot wounds may also damage distant organs as a result of shock waves traveling through tissues. In stab wounds, vital organs may be perforated or major blood vessels severed. In contusions, the liver, spleen, or kidney may be ruptured and cause internal bleeding.
First Aid for Open WoundsMany minor wounds can be treated by first-aid measures. Extensive or deeper wounds require medical treatment. If the wound contains any foreign material or dead tissue, it should be removed; the wound should then be cleansed with an antiseptic solution to decrease the risk of wound infection. The body's response to internal or external loss of blood is to contract the damaged blood vessels and to cause blood to clot at the site of the injury. At the same time, blood flow may be reduced in the skin and muscles to make sure that the brain, kidneys, and other vital organs are adequately supplied. Loss of a large amount of blood will quickly cause a dramatic fall in blood pressure accompanied by weakness, confusion, pallor, and sweating as the body tries to compensate for the blood loss; this state is known as "shock." First aid includes measures to minimize blood loss, to help the body cope with the loss, and to treat for shock.
Bleeding (simple cut) 1. For a simple cut, first wash your hands before dealing with the cut. Then, if the cut contains dirt or debris, rinse it lightly under lukewarm running water until it is clean, being careful not to touch the spout if you are using tap water. 2. Dab the cut gently (to dry it) with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. Then dress it with an adhesive bandage or other cloth. Bleeding (A deep cut) 1. For a deep cut, raise the injured part and support it. Put a sterile dressing on the wound and apply firm pressure to control bleeding 2. If the blood seeps through the bandage, don't remove the dressing because this may disturb clots and restart bleeding. Put other dressings on top of the first one and bandage all the dressings. Tourniquets A tourniquet is a device placed around a limb to compress the blood vessels. A tourniquet is often used to help locate a vein for an intravenous injection or a withdrawal of blood. By preventing blood from flowing back to the heart, the tourniquet causes veins in the limb below it to swell and become more prominent. Tourniquets have caused more problems that they have solved. In the past, they were used as a first-aid measure to stop severe bleeding. This use is now discouraged because leaving a tourniquet in place for too long can cause gangrene (tissue death).
First-aid courses now teach the control of bleeding by pressure over the bleeding sites, which is certainly safer and usually very effective. Pressure Points Arterial bleeding can be identified because blood from arteries is bright red and is pumped in regular spurts as the heart beats. To stop bleeding, pressure is applied by hand to compress appropriate arteries against the underlying bone. These pressure points may also be used to test for pulse. If direct pressure fails to control the bleeding, apply indirect pressure by compressing a major artery at a point between the wound and the heart where the artery can be pressed against a bone.
Major Pressure Points: 1. the temporal artery, at the side of the head in front of the ear (for control of scalp bleeding). 2. The carotid artery, at the side of the neck, below the jaw (for control of head and neck bleeding). 3. The subclavian artery, between the collarbone and first rib (for control of bleeding in armpit, shoulder, and upper chest). 4. The brachial artery, in the middle part of the upper arm (for control of arm bleeding). 5. The radial artery, in the lower part of the arm (for control of bleeding in the hand and forearm). 6. The femoral artery, in the center of the fold in the groin (for control of upper leg bleeding). 7. The popliteal artery, in the back of the knee joint (for control of lower leg bleeding).
Dressingsare used to control bleeding, absorb secretions, or prevent contamination by bacteria. They are placed directly onto wounds and are large enough to cover them completely. They should be sterile so as not to introduce bacteria that could cause infection. A dressing should also be absorbent; if sweat cannot evaporate, the skin around the wound becomes moist and soft and the dressing becomes sodden, encouraging the growth of bacteria and further infection. Unless a wound must be regularly cleansed, dressing should be left undisturbed. A wound should be covered for a minimum length of time. Adhesive bandages are available in a range of sizes, and consist of absorbent pads held in place by waterproof adhesive backings. These are commonly used to cover surgical wounds. Gauze is usually applied in layers, and is made of woven or non-woven cotton or a synthetic material and is used to cover larger wounds. It is held in place by a bandage or a length of adhesive strapping.
Nonstick dressings generally do not stick to the wound and can be removed without disturbing newly formed tissue. In an emergency, any clean, dry, and absorbent material may be used to cover a wound (for example, a clean piece of sheeting or a pocket handkerchief), if a sterile dressing is not available. Absorbent cotton or woolly fibrous materials should not be used, because the fibers may become embedded in the wound. To apply dressings: 1. Remove outer protective wrapping, being careful not to touch the gauze, which is covering the wound. If possible, wash your hands before touching the unwrapped dressing and gauze. Hold the dressing, gauze-side down, over the wound. 2. Wind the short end of a bandage once around the injured area and the dressing. Bandage firmly (but not tightly) and cover pad. 3. Secure the bandage by tying the two ends over the gauze pad, using a square knot (left end over right end and under; right end over left end and under). Compresses are a sheet of linen applied under pressure, to an area of skin and held in place by a bandage. The pad may be soaked in ice-cold water or wrapped around ice to provide a cold compress for reducing pain, swelling, and bleeding under the skin immediately after an injury. Ice packs are a means of applying ice (in towel or other material) to the skin to relieve pain, stem bleeding, or reduce inflammation. Cold causes the blood vessels to contract, reducing blood flow. Ice packs may be used for a variety of disorders, including headache, hemorrhoids, and pain in the throat after a tonsillectomy. Ice may be used to stop bleeding from small vessels, as in a nosebleed. To make an ice pack, wrap ice in a wet cloth (to prevent it from burning the skin) and apply it to the skin's surface. Chemical compresses are also available; striking or shaking the pack mixes the chemicals within, producing a liquid with a very low temperature. Compresses soaked in hot water increase the circulation and are useful for bringing boils to a head. A dry compress may be used to stop bleeding from a wound.
DO NOT leave an unconscious victim alone. DO NOT reposition a victims neck if you suspect an injury or fractures to the neck or spine regions.
Removing Foreign Objects Fragments of splinters and glassoften remain in small wounds just beneath the surface of the skin or in the underlying tissue. These objects will eventually cause infection if they are not removed. Sterilize tweezers in boiling water or over a hot flame and pull the object free of the tissue. If the object is just below the skin, use the tip of a sterilized needle.
Objects which are embedded deep in the tissues should be left alone until the victim is examined by a physician. If the victim is impaled on a larger object, such as a stick or a piece of metal, does not pull it loose under any circumstances. Get help immediately from an ambulance or other rescue personnel who have equipment to handle such emergencies. If no help is available, get the victim to the nearest hospital immediately. Be sure to support both the victim and the object in order to prevent further damage. Try to immobilize the protruding end of the object with massive amounts of bandage. Foreign body in the eye is high risk and you should never attempt to remove an particle embedded in the eyeball. Do not remove a foreign body if it is resting on the iris (colored part of the eye). Consult a physician.
Bites: A bite is any injury inflicted by the mouthparts of an animal or human - from tiny puncture wounds of blood-sucking insects to the massive injuries caused by shark or crocodile attacks. The greatest number of animal attacks worldwide comes from dogs, mainly strays. In the U.S., more than a million people annually are bitten badly enough by a dog to seek medical help. There are a small number of deaths as a result of dog bites and other animals, such as cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, and cats. Dog and cat bites are common. Although a dog bite is likely to cause more extensive tissue damage than a cat bite, the cat bite may be more dangerous, because there is a wider variety of a bacterium in a cat's mouth. Wild animals that have killed or caused serious injuries to humans include bears, buffalo, wolves, hyenas, wild pigs, lions, tigers, and elephants. Rodents cause less extensive damage, but they often have razor-sharp teeth and there is a high risk of infection. The teeth are well adapted to tearing and crushing and can inflict severe and extensive injury. Severe wounds to major blood vessels can sometimes lead to serious blood loss and shock.
An animal's mouth contains a lot of bacteria and microorganisms which can cause serious secondary infections, especially in wounds where there is extensive damage. Tetanus is a particular hazard of animal bites, as is rabies. In the U.S., there are relatively few cases of rabies in dogs and cats. From a total of 5,880 cases of rabies in the entire country, 132 were from dog bites and 168 from cat bites. The rest came from skunks, raccoons, and bats. In general, wounds from human bites are more serious than those from animal bites. This type of bite rarely causes serious tissue damage or blood loss. However, infections from any of the range of bacteria and microorganisms in the mouth is as likely, or even more likely, than from the bite of an animal, particularly if the bite is deep. There is also a risk of tetanus infection. First Aid for Bites For anything more serious than a minor bite or scratch - or if there is any possibility of rabies - the victim should receive medical treatment from a physician. In the meantime, cleanse the wound and hold the animal which inflicted the bite, if possible, for a rabies examination. The doctor usually leaves the wound open and dressed, rather than stitched, as a closed wound tends to encourage bacteria from bites to multiply. Antibiotics or anti tetanus injections may also be given by the physician.
First Aid for Closed Wounds is usually caused by falls or by motor vehicle accidents. Many of these wounds are small, a black eye for example. Others may involve fractures or injuries to vital organs. Signs and Symptoms The symptoms of a closed wound are pain and tenderness, swelling, discoloration of soft tissues and, perhaps, a deformity in the case of a fracture or dislocation. You may suspect a closed wound with possible rupture and internal bleeding when a force on the body has produced shock or unconsciousness.
Even if an open wound is obvious, there are symptoms that give indication of internal injury: 1. Cold, clammy, pale skin, very rapid but weak pulse, dizziness, and rapid breathing. 2. Pain and tenderness in the part of the body in which injury lies, especially if the victim complains of pain which seems out of proportion with the external injury. 3. Uncontrolled nervousness and excessive thirst. 4. Coughing up or spitting of blood or signs of blood in the urine or feces.
First Aid for closed wounds, examine the victim for fractures or other injuries. If you suspect an internal wound, get medical help immediately. If you suspect a closed fracture, immobilize the injured area before moving the victim, and transport him or her in a lying position, giving special attention to signs of shock. Also, watch the victim's breathing and be prepared to give artificial respiration. No matter how much the victim complains of thirst, do not give any fluids by mouth. Get to the hospital as soon as possible. For a small injury (such as a black eye), put a cold compress on the injured area. This will help reduce swelling and may slow down internal bleeding.
All information contained here in is for informational purposes only; Site users should attend a credited First Aid Course offered by Local EMS Agencies, American Red Cross or the American Heart Association
•Trauma is the leading cause of death in persons under the age of 40 and affects a substantial percentage of the US population of all ages.
•The estimated national annual cost for the healthcare of trauma victims exceeds 200 billion US dollars.
MORE EDUCATION DATA
One person dies of melanoma every hour. But when identified early, melanoma is almost always curable. Check your skin regularly, using the ABCD method to evaluate moles.
Asymmetry: Draw an imaginary line through a mole. Do both sides look alike? If one half of a mole does not match the other, see your doctor.
Border:Check the outside edge of a mole. Is the edge sharp and easy to distinguish from the surrounding skin? If edges are ragged or fuzzy, see your doctor.
Color: Check the color of a mole. Is the color the same throughout the mole, or does it vary with shades of dark brown to black, or shades of white, red or blue? If there are any color changes from one area of a mole to another, see your doctor.
Difference: Check your skin every month for changes in the mole or other spots. Are any of your moles different? Have they changed in size, shape, color, or are they suddenly itchy? If you notice a difference in the size or look of any mole, see your doctor.
MELANOMA
I AM A MEMBER
OF
EMERGENCY E 911 USAGES FOR POLICE – FIRE – EMS
Q: What is E-911?
A: 911 is a nationally recognized number that the public can call to request emergency assistance for police, fire, or medical emergencies. It is an easy number to remember during an emergency. Specially trained people known as "EMS Dispatchers" answer your E-911 call. EMS Dispatchers are trained to ask certain questions that are necessary in order to determine the nature of your emergency and the proper emergency service that is needed.
Q: What is an Emergency?
A: An emergency can be any type of incident where injury to people or property may occur. Examples of an emergency can be accidents with injuries, fires of any kind, medical emergencies, and any crime that is in progress.
Q: What information do I need to give to the EMS Dispatcher when I call E-911?
A: Always try to provide as much information to the EMS Dispatcher as possible. Remember the "Who, What, When, and Where" rule. This rule will provide: who is calling, what is going on, when did it happen and where did it happen. These four questions are the basic information an EMS Dispatcher needs to provide timely assistance to an incident, however it is always better to provide the most information possible. Remember, the EMS Dispatcher is asking the questions so they can dispatch the proper number of units to the proper location. Do not hang up until instructed to do so by the EMS Dispatcher on the line.
Q: If I get disconnected while talking to 9-1-1, what should I do?
A: Always try to call back. Never disconnect until told to do so by the dispatcher. Calling back in these cases assures that all required information has been received. However enhanced 911 systems do allow EMS Dispatchers to hold a line open and ring the caller back.
E-911 Tips
Keep your address and phone number posted near every phone in your house. It is very stressful during an emergency and it is very easy to forget your address. By posting this information, you as well as any visitors at your home can dial E-911 and get help quickly.
Speak clearly and calmly at all times. Do not yell into the phone.
Always Listen closely to the questions and try to answer all the questions that are asked by the EMS Dispatchers. Something that might not seem important to you now could be very important later.
Children and E-911 Calls
Make sure that your children regardless of age know how to use E-911. Teach your children their address and phone number at an early age. Also use a toy phone as a learning prop.
Teach children to dial E-911 only in an emergency, using a toy phone is a good training tool.
If E-911 is dialed by mistake, please stay on the line and let the EMS Dispatcher know there is no problem and it was a dialing error.
Teaching your children to call E-911 if they feel they are in danger and need help, Explain different scenario’s that would cause your child to call E-911, provide your children with examples of various emergency and non-emergency calls.
Wonderful Resource: In addition learn about Compound Medications used in a variety of Treatments and conditions--You will run across these specialty Medications on your EMS Runs
