Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
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15.2.6 Immersion foot
Non-freezing cold injury – Immersion foot
This is a term given to the condition when the temperature of local tissues in
the limbs (usually the feet) remains sub-normal but above freezing for a
prolonged period. It is commonly encountered by shipwreck survivors who
have been adrift and cold for several days. Usually the feet have been wet
and immobile, but this injury can occur in dry conditions. Other contributory
factors are tight footwear and sitting still with the feet down for prolonged
periods.
Diagnosis
Feet become white, numb, cold and frequently are slightly swollen. When
returned to the warmth, the feet become hot, red, swollen and excruciatingly
painful.
Prevention
Every effort should be made by survivors to keep their feet warm and dry.
Shoe laces should be loosened; the feet should be raised and toe and ankle
exercises encouraged several times a day.
When possible, shoes should be removed and feet kept warm by placing
them under the armpits, but outside the clothing, of another occupant of the
life-raft or boat. Alternatively, unwanted spare clothing may be wrapped round
the feet to keep them warm. Smoking should be discouraged.
Treatment
After rescue every effort should be made to avoid rapid re-warming of the
affected limbs. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the skin or breaking
blisters. Do not massage affected limbs.
15.2.7 Freezing cold injury – frostbite
Frostbite is the term given to the condition when tissue fluids freeze in
localised areas of the body; the hands, face and feet are particularly
susceptible.
Cause
Exposure, particularly of bare skin to sub-zero temperatures, especially
when combined with air movement. Look-outs in life rafts or survivors in open
boats are particularly prone to this injury. Accordingly, consideration should be
given to the length of watch periods and watch keepers should be supplied
with any spare clothing.
Diagnosis
The signs are:
- extreme waxy pallor of the skin;