Use an
An warmer can raise body temperature in severe cases of hypothermia. With portable devices, a saline solution is pumped into the body from the warmer. As it circulates, the core body temperature quickly rises.
Instructions
Use an Intravenous Fluid Warmer to Raise Body Temperature
1. Call a doctor or emergency medical assistance if someone in your party is in a severe state of hypothermia. A doctor is the person most qualified to use an intravenous fluid warmer.
2. Use an intravenous fluid warmer in the field only if you have proper training. You will need to insert an IV and pump blood or saline into the body to warm it. Without proper training, you may injure the victim.
3. Read the directions for the unit you will be using. Each intravenous fluid warmer works differently and some require additional machines or tools to work. Know use the device before you head into conditions that may induce hypothermia.
4. Make sure you have the correct power supply. Most portable intravenous fluid warmers operate on 12 volts, which is common to vehicles and portable batteries.
5. Heat fluids between 104 and 108 degrees F to treat the patient for hypothermia. The fluid should never be cooler than the patient's core temperature.
6. Be careful inserting the IV. In some hypothermic victims, the blood vessels can become constricted, making it difficult to find a vein. People with hypothermia may also thrash around or struggle, making it hard to keep the IV in place
7. Administer warmed dextrose in water or saline solution. Since most hypothermic victims are dehydrated, administer about 300 to 500 ccs of dextrose in water or saline rapidly, followed by 75 to 100 cc per hour.
Tags: fluid warmer, intravenous fluid warmer, intravenous fluid, , dextrose water saline, Fluid Warmer