(3) Give the casualty fluids for fluid replacement. (Medical personnel will
determine the need for salt replacement.)
(4)
Have the casualty rest.
(5)
Seek medical aid for the casualty.
c. Immersion Syndrome.
(1) Remove wet coverings and gradually rewarm the affected body parts by
exposing to warm air.
(2)
Protect the affected parts from trauma. Do not massage the affected
areas.
(3)
Dry affected feet thoroughly. Avoid having the casualty walk on affected
feet.
(4)
Elevate the affected part to reduce swelling.
(5) Seek medical treatment or evacuate the casualty to a medical treatment
facility as soon as practical.
d. Frostbite. If not properly treated, frostbite can result in the loss of fingers,
toes, hands, or feet. Frostbite can also result in gangrene, a life-threatening condition.
(1)
Move the casualty to a sheltered area.
(2)
Warm the affected area using firm, steady pressure of hands, underarm,
or abdomen.
(a) For a frostbitten area on the casualty's face, ears, or nose, cover
the area with your bare hands. Leave your hands in place until the pain in the
frostbitten area stops and the color returns to the area. (If the casualty is able, he can
use his own hands to rewarm the affected part.)
(b) For a frostbitten hand, remove jewelry from the affected hand and
put it in the casualty's pocket. Loosen constricting clothing to help restore circulation.
Open the casualty's field jacket and place the casualty's hand under his armpit (right
hand under left armpit; left hand under right armpit). Then close the casualty's clothing
to prevent additional exposure to the cold.
IS0877
9-16
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