Condition |
Symptoms |
Treatment priorities ( aerial |
|
|
casualty ) |
Harness-induced pathology
Also known as suspension trauma or orthostatic shock . Occurs where a casualty has been suspended motionless in a harness for an extended period .
According to some authors , may not be likely with modern industrial harness designs .
Assess DRSABC .
If conscious , encourage to change position and move legs . Assist to elevate legs if possible ( occurs more commonly in a vertical position )
Call Ambulance Service .
Rescue to ground as early as safely possible .
If safe to do so , loosen or remove harness . Rest the person in a position of comfort , ideally lying down , and provide oxygen if available .
Eye injuries Impact to face . Foreign object in eye . Loss of vision . Blood in eye . Nausea , vomiting , pain .
Assess DRSABC . Call Ambulance Service .
Do not attempt to remove embedded objects . Stabilise in place as best as possible .
Cover eye injury if possible . Rescue to ground .
Electrocution ( electrical burns / shock )
Burns
Visible burns , where the current entered and exited the body .
Unconsciousness .
Semi-conscious , dazed , confused behaviour .
Absent , weak or irregular pulse . Symptoms of shock .
Pain , redness , blistering , blackened skin , singed hair .
Airway burns may include hoarse voice , soot in nose or mouth , breathing distress .
Severe burns involve tissue destruction and may have a glossy white appearance .
Assess DRSABC . Call Ambulance Service . Rescue to ground . Manage burns .
Assess DRSABC . Call Ambulance Service . Rescue casualty to ground .
Irrigate burn with cool water for minimum 20 minutes .
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