Distinctly Montana Magazine

D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA N A • W I N T E R 2 0 1 7 58 GENERAL TREATMENT FOR OUTDOOR FIRST AID SHOCK: Lay the victim down with feet about 12 inches above head unless head, neck, back, or bone injury is suspected. ABC'S: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. Ensure the patient has a clear, unobstructed airway, and that he or she is breathing. Administer CPR if necessary. STOP-GAP: Stop the major bleeds or fluid losses immediately with available material. Warm: Keep the victim as warm and comfortable as possible. SIGNAL: By cell phone, radio, or visual displays if you and the victim are unable to leave the immediate vicinity where the injury has occurred. SECURITY: Establish safety as possible from animals and especially weather, avoiding further harm to the victim and yourself SHELTER: If overnight or extended wait is expected, create shelter and campfire. Please note that the treatments reviewed in this article are temporary and to be used only as a guide to assisting victims under significant duress. In ALL cases, evacuate and seek medical attention as soon as possible. COMMON WINTER INJURIES AND FIRST AID TREATMENTS SLIPS AND FALLS Sudden, accidental collapse, rapidly and without control. SYMPTOMS Signs of concussion-confusion, disorientation, loss of consciousness vision problems, vomiting, broken bones, bleeding. TREATMENT Keep victim's body still and warm; examine and restrain any blood loss; administer CPR if victim is not breathing. CHILBLAIN OR FROSTNIP Prolonged exposure of bare skin to low temperatures. SYMPTOMS Redness or pallor of exposed areas; hot, tender, itch- ing skin TREATMENT Warm the affected area slowly with warm breath or body warmth, such as armpits or hands. FROSTBITE Extreme exposure of bare skin to low temperatures. SYMPTOMS Tingling and numbness; sudden whitening of skin; frozen area feels solid to touch; pale, waxy appearance of skin; loss of feeling pain TREATMENT Loosen clothing and jewelry; cover with blankets or other available wear; give warm liquids if possible; DO NOT rub affected areas with snow and ice; DO NOT expose affected areas to extreme heat; DO NOT massage; DO NOT soak in water.

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