Positional Asphyxia, Fainting , Drowning Flashcards
What is positional asphyxia
Condition that occurs when persons position causes their breathing to be restricted
When does it occurs?
- Commonly in small infants who find themselves in position where their airways are restricted and are unable to reposition themselves
- This can occur in adults either by an accident for example being stuck in a difficult position
What are the warning signs of positional asphyxia?
○ Difficulty breathing
○ Feeling sick/ nauseous
○ Obvious distension of the veins in their neck
○ A change in behaviour either becomes more or less resistant
○ Becomes limp or unresponsive
○ Loss of consciousness
What courses fainting
→ A sudden drop in blood pressure
→ A sudden change in position
→ Dehydration
→ Stress or fear
→ Poison or alcohol
→ Heat
Pain
What’s the management before fainting?
- lie them down on their back and raise their legs, increasing the blood supply to their brain
- If refusing to lie down keep a close eye incuse they collapse. Guide them gently down onto the ground
- Once on the ground they can be placed into recovery position
What to look for at the arrival of a scene
○ Does the casualty appear conscious or unconscious?
○ If conscious do they appear in pain or are they demonstrating signs of an altered mental status?
○ Is there blood present or any signs of violence?
○ Is medication in casualty’s hand or laying nearby?
○ Is the casualty wearing a medial bracelet or necklace?
- Based on the location of the circumstances is there a high risk of alcohol and or illicit drugs being involved?
What are the signs and symptoms of drowning?
○ Pale, cool skin
○ Absent, rapid or laboured breathing
○ Absent or decreased level of consciousness
○ Coughing, wheezing, spluttering
- Cyanosis (bluish colour around lips)
what breathing difficulties can be experienced during Respiratory Distress?
→ Being short of breath
→ Being unable to take deep breaths and gasping for air
- Feeling like you are not getting enough air
