Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
15 23
 A weak, ‘thready’ pulse. When the pulse at the wrist disappears, fluid
loss may equal half the blood volume.
As the oxygen supply to the brain weakens:
 The casualty may become restless, anxious and aggressive.
 The casualty may yawn and gasp for air (‘air hunger’).
 The casualty will eventually become unconscious.
 Finally, the heart will stop.
Treatment of Shock
DO NOT let the casualty move unnecessarily, eat, drink, or smoke.
DO NOT leave the casualty unattended. Reassure the casualty constantly.
 Treat any cause of shock which can be remedied (such as external
bleeding).
 Lay the casualty down, keeping the head low.
 Raise and support the casualty’s legs (be careful if suspecting a
fracture).
 Loosen tight clothing, braces, straps or belts, in order to reduce
constriction at the neck, chest and waist.
 Insulate the casualty from cold, both above and below. Contact the
emergency service.
 Check and record breathing, pulse and level of response. Be prepared
to resuscitate the casualty if necessary.
• Maintain body heat by insulating the victim from the surroundings and,
in some instances, applying external heat.
• If wet, remove all the victim's wet clothing as soon as possible and
replace with dry clothing.
• Improvise a shelter to insulate the victim from the weather.
• Use warm liquids or foods, a pre-warmed sleeping bag, another
person, warmed water in canteens, hot rocks wrapped in clothing, or fires on
either side of the victim to provide external warmth.
• If the victim is conscious, slowly administer small doses of a warm salt
or sugar solution, if available.
• If the victim is unconscious or has abdominal wounds, do not give
fluids by mouth.
• Have the victim rest for at least 24 hours.
• If the victim is conscious, place him on a level surface with the lower
extremities elevated 15 to 20 centimeters (6 to 8 inches).
• If the victim is unconscious, place him on his side or abdomen with his
head turned to one side to prevent choking on vomit, blood, or other fluids.