EHI

Question 1

at least 6 meds that increase risk of EHI

Answer 1

antihistamines, decongestants, tricyclic antidepressants, amphetamines, beta-blockers, alpha agonists, cocaine, Ca channel blockers, anticholinergics, benzodiazepines and diuretics

Question 2

medical conditions that increase risk of EHI

Answer 2

old age, peripheral arterial disease, heart disease, obesity, previous EHI within recent months and diabetes mellitus

Question 3

prevention (before event)

Answer 3

acclimatization over 10-14 days @ temp >80 or w/ extra clothes;
aerobic exercise w/ MHR 60-80% x 60 min/day
hydration;
light colored, moisture-wicking clothing

Question 4

prevention (during event)

Answer 4

drink ice slurry;
forearms in ice water x 10 min during rest periods;
mandatory rest

Question 5

if cold water immersion not available, alternatives

Answer 5

spray and fan (best)
wetted crushed ice packs* to whole body; ?? to groin, axilla, neck (limited data shows no benefit)
*if all you have is chemical, wet the packs and apply them to entire body starting with nonhairy surfaces (cheeks, palms, soles)

Question 6

if rehydrating for EHI use what kind of solution

Answer 6

isotonic or hypertonic; IV for heat stroke, but that doesn’t take precedence over whole body cooling

Question 7

Treatment of heat cramps

Answer 7

Remove from heat, rehydrate (isotonic or hypertonic)

Question 8

Besides the obvious, remove from heat includes

Answer 8

loosening clothing, put barrier between hot ground and patient