Wounds

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weakness, paralysis or disorders of the higher cerebral functions, including memory and personality changes.)

dehydration: depletion of the body’s water reserves to a level below normal, caused by giving off more water—through excretion, breathing or sweating—than is taken in (Mild dehydration may go unnoticed; more severe dehydration can cause dizziness, rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure.)

edema: an accumulation of excess fluid in any of the body’s tissues or cavities

heart attack: a sudden blockage of the flow of blood within the heart, usually due to a blood clot in one of the coronary arteries; also known as a myocardial infarction (A heart attack often results in damage to the heart muscle and can be fatal.)

hyperoxia: excessive oxygen supply to the body

hyperthermia: a condition in which the body’s core temperature is elevated above normal; effects range from edema to syncope and can be seen beginning at 104°F (40°C)

hypoglycemia: a condition in which one’s blood glucose (blood sugar) is lower than normal

hypothermia: a condition in which the body’s core temperature drops below normal; effects range from shivering and fatigue to hallucinations and loss of consciousness and can be seen beginning at 95°F (35°C)

hypoxia: an inadequate supply of oxygen to the body tissues

initial assessment: a first responder’s initial evaluation of ill or injured patients, especially of their breathing and circulation, to evaluate any immediate threats to their lives

liters per minute (L/min): a unit used to measure the flow rate of a gas or liquid

mediastinal emphysema: a condition characterized by gas bubbles trapped within the mediastinum; usually the result of pulmonary barotrauma