Combat Lifesaving

Question 1

Identify types of bleeding

Answer 1

Arterial bleeding: bright red blood (oxygen) the pumps out in distinct spurts; victim can bleed out in 1-2 minutes; immediate application of tourniquet.

Venous bleeding: steady flow of dark red/maroon blood; much easier to control than arterial bleeding.

Capillary bleeding: slow oozing of blood; minor wounds.

Question 2

Symptoms of shock (9)

Answer 2

• Sweaty but cool skin
• Pale skin
• Restlessness, nervousness
• Thirst
• Loss of blood (caused by internal or external bleeding)
• Confusion or loss of awareness
• Faster than normal breathing rate
• Blotchy or bluish skin (esp around mouth/lips)
• Nausea and vomiting

Question 3

Treatment and prevention of shock (7)

Answer 3

• Move the casualty to cover
• Position on back. Don’t move casualty on limbs if suspected fractures haven’t been splinted.
• Elevate feet higher than heart. Use stable object so feet don’t slip. Splint suspected fractures first.
• Loosen clothing wherever binding.
• Prevent chilling or overheating.
  Calm the casualty.
• Don’t give food or drink. If unconscious, turn on side in recovery position in case victim vomits.

Question 4

Identify classification of burns (3)

Answer 4

First degree: most superficial layer of the epidermis; only reddening of skin.

Second degree: partial thickness burns cause damage into but not through the dermas and results in blisters forming on the skin.

Third degree: full thickness burns destroy the skin to the fat; skin may be pale, dry, white, or charred. Nerve endings usually destroyed, victim feels no pain.

Question 5

Types of burns (3)

Answer 5

Thermal: contact w/ fire, hot objects, hot liquids, gases, or nuclear blast or fireball. Most common in combat.

Electrical: contact w/ electrical wires, current, or lightning.

Chemical: contact w/ wet or dry chemical or white phosphorus.