Chapter 32 - Environmental

air embolism

presence of air in the veins, leads to cardiac arrest if enters the heart

ambient temperature

surrounding environment temperature

antivenin

serum that counteracts venom

bends

common name for decompression sickness

breath holding syncope

loss of consciousness caused by decreased breathing stimulus

conduction

loss of heat by direct contact

convection

loss of body heat caused by air movement

core temperature

temperature of the central part of the body

decompression sickness

quick decrease in pressure causes bubbles in blood vessels/tissues

diving reflex

slowing of the heart rate caused by submersion in cold water

drowning

submersion/immersion causes respiratory impairment

dysbarism injuries

signs/symptoms caused by different surrounding and internal pressures

evaporation

conversion of water to gas

frostbite

exposure to cold damages tissues

heat cramps

painful muscle spasms usually associated with vigorous