d. Immersion Syndrome. The treatment outlined below should be begun as
soon as possible for immersion syndrome.
(1) Dry affected area. Dry the affected area immediately.
(2) Rewarm affected area. Re-warm the affected part gradually by exposing
it to warm air. If warm air from a heated source is not available, the affected area is
normally re-warmed using the same procedures as with chilblain. Covering the affected
part of the limb with dry, loose clothing or with several layers of warm coverings is also
an acceptable method of re-warming.
-- CAUTION --
DO NOT massage the skin of the affected area.
DO NOT apply extreme heat to the affected area
DO NOT apply cold (ice or snow) to the affected area.
(3) Elevate affected area. Elevate the affected part using a stable prop.
Elevating the part will help to reduce swelling in the affected part.
(4) Protect affected area. Protect the affected limb from being accidentally
hit and from falling from its elevation support. Open sores should be covered with a dry,
sterile dressing.
(5) Evacuate. The casualty should be evacuated to a medical treatment
facility for additional medical treatment as soon as possible. Move the casualty by litter
or manual carries. Do not let him walk if walking can be prevented.
e. Frostbite. A person with frostbite should be moved to the most sheltered
area available. Perform the procedures given below. Do not give alcoholic beverages
or tobacco to the casualty.
(1) Rewarm the frostbitten area. Re-warm the affected area using the same
procedures given in paragraphs 4-6a and b. DO NOT rub or massage the frostbitten
area, soak the area, or apply cold or extreme heat to the area.
-- WARNING --
Rewarm the casualty's frostbitten feet only if the casualty
will not need to walk any further to receive medical treatment.
(The casualty may be evacuated by air, and so forth.)
Thawing a casualty's feet and then forcing him to walk on
them will cause additional pain and injury.
MD0152
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