Question

A young man has been racing in fridge conditions. He completed a part of the course that he needs to immerse himself in a lake cold water. After, he came out from the cold water he was shivering, numbness and barely walk. You are the First Aider at this race. What do you suspect is happening to the racer? What signs or symptoms support your suspicions? What type of first aid do you give him until EMS arrive and takes over?

Answer 1

ANSWER :

1)As a first aider I suspect hypothermia in the racer

2)Hypothermia : It is a condition where body temperature falls to a lower level , when a person is exposed to cold water, air or rain.

In the above scenario , he is exposed to cold water and having mild signs and symptoms of hypothermia :

• Shivering
• Numbness
• Mild difficulty in balancing and walking

3)First aid to be given :

• Move the patient very gently because excessive vigorous movements can lead to cardiac arrest
• Shift the patient to warm and dry area and remove all the wet clothing and cover him with warm blankets
• Monitor vitals and breathing of the person
• First aid warm compresses only to neck, chest wall and groin
• As he is conscious and alert , we can give him warm beverages to keep him warm.