CAUTION:
If the casualty has an abdominal injury, leave the casualty on his back
with his knees flexed (Lesson 4).
(1) Position the casualty on his back. If possible, place a poncho or
blanket under the casualty to protect him from the ground.
(2) Check for fractures of the lower extremities and splint any fractures
found. Do not elevate the legs until all lower limb fractures have been splinted.
(3) Elevate the casualty's legs so his feet are slightly higher than the level
of his heart. This helps the blood in the veins of his legs to return to his heart.
(4) Place a small log, field pack, box, rolled field jacket, or other stable
object under the casualty's feet or ankles to maintain the elevation.
(5) If the casualty is unconscious, turn his head to one side so fluids can
drain from his mouth.
f. Loosen the Casualty's Clothing. Loosen any binding clothing, including
boots. Tight clothing can interfere with blood circulation. Avoid rough handling during
the process.
CAUTION:
Do not loosen or remove the casualty's protective clothing in a
chemical environment.
g. Maintain Casualty's Body Temperature.
(1) In warm weather, keep the casualty in the shade. If natural shade is
not available, erect an improvised shade using a poncho and sticks or other available
materials. It is better to keep the patient slightly warm rather than cool. A patient that
is cool is losing body heat and is therefore at risk for hypothermia.
(2) In cool weather, cover the casualty with a blanket, poncho, or other
available materials to keep him warm and dry (figure 7-2). Place covering under the
casualty to prevent chilling due to contact with cold or wet ground.
Figure 7-2. Protecting a shock casualty from cool temperatures.
MD0554
7-5