TREATING COLD EMERGENCIES 101 - WHAT EMTS NEED TO KNOW

Baby it's cold outside, and that means cold emergencies. As an EMT, it's important for us to know the signs and symptoms of a cold emergency so we can provide the best possible care.

When it comes to cold-related emergencies, knowing the signs and symptoms is crucial for swift and effective action. Frostbite, for example, occurs when the skin and tissues beneath it freeze due to extreme cold temperatures. Look out for numbness, changes in skin color, and a waxy appearance. On the other hand, hypothermia is a serious condition where the body loses heat faster than it can generate it, resulting in a dangerously low body temperature. Keep an eye out for symptoms like shivering, confusion, and slow breathing. By understanding these warning signs, you can be better prepared to respond in a potentially life-saving manner.

When it comes to cold exposure, there are several factors that can impact how our bodies respond to low temperatures. It's important to educate ourselves on these factors to ensure our overall well-being and safety.

Here are some key considerations:

1. Physical Condition: The overall physical health and fitness level play a crucial role in how well our bodies handle cold exposure.

2. Age: Age is a significant factor to consider when it comes to cold exposure. Young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems may have a harder time maintaining their body temperature in cold environments.

3. Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for supporting our bodies during cold exposure.

4. Environmental Conditions: The surrounding environment plays a crucial role in cold exposure. Factors such as wind chill, humidity, and altitude can significantly impact how our bodies react to cold temperatures.

So, how can we manage these cold emergencies effectively? Here are a few steps to follow:

If someone is experiencing symptoms of frostbite, it's important to act quickly. Move the person to a warm area and remove any wet clothing. To prevent further damage, do not allow the patient to walk. Gently and passively warm the affected area by applying warm compresses. Avoid direct heat sources like heating pads or hot water bottles, as they can cause burns. If available, give the patient warmed humidified oxygen, remove any jewelry and do not break blisters. Cover the frostbitten area with soft sterile cotton dressing.

Hypothermia requires immediate medical attention. Move the person to a warm area and remove any wet clothing. Cover them with dry blankets or clothing to insulate their body heat. Gradually warm the body by using warmed towels to specific areas like the armpits, groin, and neck. Always handle the patient gently, you do not want to cause any pain or further damage. Do not massage any extremities. Potential rough handling a patient with moderate to severe hypothermia may cause the heart to go into ventricular fibrillation, which may not respond to defibrillation.

To effectively address cold emergencies, prioritize increasing the temperature in the patient compartment of the ambulance before reaching the scene. This precaution is crucial for optimal patient care.

With this video here, you'll learn all about how to recognize and treat the symptoms of cold-related health issues. We take a professional, but approachable, tone to ensure that you get the information you need in an engaging and entertaining way. 

Remember, being prepared and having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference in managing cold emergencies. Here is a great tool to place into your personal first aid kit, the Myla Emergency Blanket Kit. Perfect for camping, hiking or just having in your car. It's an ideal solution for staying warm and safe in the harshest conditions.

Diving into the world of emergency response can be exhilarating, daunting, and everything in between. But remember, you're never alone in this journey. To ensure you're equipped with the latest tips, suggestions, and camaraderie, there's no better place to be than with your peers. That's why we invite you to join our Facebook group so wittingly called, After AVPU. It is dedicated to medical first responder knowledge. Here, the exchange of information is limitless, and you'll find discussions that directly address how to polish your skills and learn from others' experiences. Click the link to fly straight into our caring community. Connect with fellow first responders and elevate your skills today!

Stay warm, stay safe, and stay well!