Aeromedical Support for Casualties in Extremely Hot Climates
Abstract
Aeromedical support for operations in hot climates involves exposure to acute heat injury and chronic heat stress which are unfamiliar to many medical personnel in NATO nations. Preparation for deployment to a hot climate should include review of climatic data for the site, appropriate adjustment to supplies and equipment needed to handle predicted numbers of heat casualties, and education of all air base personnel regarding methods of preventing heat illness. Medical facilities at the remote site may include local buildings or air transportable units. Special care is required with respect to housekeeping and provision of safe food and water in hot climates. Casualties arriving from remote sites should be assumed to stiffer from heat stress and dehydration; those with elevated temperatures or disturbed consciousness must be treated as heat stroke cases until proven otherwise. Oral rehydration mixtures should be used whenever possible, reserving intravenous fluids for severe cases. Plans for air evacuation of all patients should attempt to minimize heat stress during loading and allow for continued rehydration in flight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA269808
Entities
People
- Roger U. Bisson
- Sarah A. Nunneley
Organizations
- Armstrong Laboratory