Environmental Considerations

Flashcards created to help review key concepts from environmental considerations in sports safety, focusing on heat-related and cold-related illnesses and prevention strategies.

What is hyperthermia?

A condition where body temperature is elevated.

What should athletic trainers know regarding hyperthermia?

They must have knowledge of temperature, humidity, and imminent threats to make decisions.

What is heat stress?

A condition resulting from prolonged exposure to heat, which can lead to heat illness.

What are common conditions that lead to heat-related illnesses?

Hot, humid, sunny conditions, as well as cold environments.

What is conduction?

The process of heat transfer through direct contact.

What is convection?

Heat transfer when air or water moves around an object.

How does radiation differ from conduction and convection?

Radiation is heat transfer without direct contact.

What happens to sweating in high humidity?

Sweating becomes severely impaired at 65% humidity and stops at 75%.

What are the signs/symptoms of heat syncope?

Dizziness, nausea, fainting due to prolonged standing in heat.

What treatment is recommended for heat cramps?

Fluids, mild stretching, ice massage.

What is the core temperature limit for heat exhaustion?

Core temperature less than 105°.

What do you do if someone shows signs of heat exhaustion?

Remove from play, provide fluids, and take to a cool place.

What is the treatment strategy for heatstroke?

Immerse in cold water, activate EMS, cool to 102° or less.

What can prevent heat illness effectively during exercise?

Hydration before, during, and after exercise.

How should athletes acclimatize to heat?

Progressive exposure to heat over 7-14 days.

What does WBGT stand for in heat guidelines?

Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, which accounts for temperature, humidity, and wind.

What is hypothermia?

A condition where body temperature is lowered.

What needs to be recognized by athletic trainers regarding hypothermia?

They must recognize and manage cold-related illnesses and injuries.

What are early signs of mild hypothermia?

Vigorous shivering, increased BP, lethargy.

What should you do for someone showing symptoms of moderate hypothermia?

Activate EMS and begin to warm them up.

What are the conditions for frost nip?

High wind or severe cold, occurs on ears, nose, cheeks, fingers, and toes.

What are the symptoms of superficial frostbite?

Edema, redness, mottled grey skin, stiffness, tingling.

What is necessary for treatment of deep frostbite?

Gradual re-warming, usually in a warm water bath.

What are preventive measures against cold injuries?

Hydration and wearing appropriate apparel.

What is the second leading cause of death by weather phenomena?

Lightning.

What should you do in the event of a lightning storm?

Shelter indoors and avoid large trees and metallic objects.

How long should you wait to return to play after a lightning strike?

At least 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning.

What is one key sign that you are in imminent danger from lightning?

Hair standing up on your hand.

What does afterdrop signify in hypothermia treatment?

As blood from the extremities cools the core temperature.

What types of clothing are essential for cold weather activity?

Waterproof and windproof fabrics that allow movement.

What is a crucial aspect of hydration in preventing heat illness?

Monitoring urine color to gauge hydration levels.

What should be removed from a person suffering from heat exhaustion?

Excess clothing or equipment.

What is one of the primary responsibilities of athletic trainers?

Safety.

What legal issues should athletic trainers consider in relation to environmental threats?

They could be held liable if threats or conditions are ignored.

What is one effect of dehydration in relation to heat?

Protective equipment may not allow for heat dissipation, impairing the sweating mechanism.

What are signs of frost nip?

Cold, painless areas that may peel or blister, typically on ears, nose, and fingers.

What are critical actions to take during a lightning storm?

Shelter indoors and avoid large trees, metallic objects, and waiting after the last thunder.

What should you do if your hair is standing up during a storm?

You are in imminent danger; get down low but not flat to reduce surface area.