(1)
Do not massage the skin of the affected area.
Do not apply extreme heat to the affected area.
(2)
Do not apply cold (ice or snow) to the area.
(3)
c. Elevate Affected Area. Elevate the affected part using a stable prop (log,
pack, and so forth). Elevating the part will help reduce swelling and fluid buildup (edema) in the
affected part.
d. Protect Affected Area. Protect the affected area from injury (trauma) and
from infection. Being accidentally hit, falling from its elevated support, or being
massaged can cause additional tissue injury. Open wounds should be covered with a
dry, sterile dressing.
e. Record Treatment. Record the casualty's signs and symptoms and the
treatment administered on a DD Form 1380, U.S. Field Medical Card. Attach the Field
Medical Card to the casualty's clothing if he is evacuated.
f. Evacuate. The casualty should be evacuated to a medical treatment facility
for additional medical treatment as soon as possible. If possible, transport the casualty
by vehicle, litter, or manual carry. Do not let the casualty walk on affected feet if walking
can be prevented.
5-7.
IDENTIFY SNOW BLINDNESS
Snow blindness is the temporary loss of sight due to the eyes being exposed to
too much ultraviolet solar radiation. This occurs when the normal ultraviolet rays in
sunlight are reinforced by ultraviolet rays being reflected off ice or snow. Since clouds
do not stop ultraviolet rays, snow blindness can occur even during cloudy or hazy
weather. In fact, snow blindness is more likely to occur during cloudy or hazy weather
because individuals may not take the same precautions they would normally take if
visible sunlight were reflecting brightly off the ice and snow.
a. Initial Signs and Symptoms. Snow blindness begins with a scratchy feeling
in the eyes when the eyelids are closed. It may feel as though sand or dirt particles
were present in the eye. Tears, redness of the eyes, and headache are usually present
also.
b. Severe Signs and Symptoms. If the problem is allowed to continue without
treatment for several hours, pain (sometimes extreme) will be experienced along with
inability to visually distinguish objects.
MD0548
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