Trauma

3-10-a. Pain Reduction

For isolated extremity trauma or significant burns, pain medication may be used selectively and cautiously, with the goal of partial relief of the pain while avoiding: over sedation, hypotension and obscuring head or torso injuries.

For these cases consider Fentanyl IV 1.0 mcg/kg or Fentanyl misted IN 1.5 mcg / kg. For other cases of severe pain, communicate with the base station.

3-10-b. Hypovolemic Shock

If the patient exhibits signs of shock considered to be secondary to hypovolemia:

1) Administer oxygen via mask or endotracheal tube

2) Establish IV with Normal Saline

3) If unable to start IV, and patient is in critical condition consider starting an IO

4) Rapidly infuse Normal Saline 20 ml/kg

5) Do not delay transport

6) Be aware of possible hypothermia in patients with large blood loss or large open wounds, therefore, cover patient with blankets and turn-off the air conditioner in the ambulance patient compartment