Summary of Heat-Related Emergencies and Kidney Transplant

Heat Cramps

  • Common in athletes, caused by dehydration and electrolyte loss.
  • Treatment: Elevate limbs, gentle massage, hydration with energy drinks, and rest from strenuous activities for 12 hours.

Heat Exhaustion

  • Result of prolonged heat exposure; symptoms include fatigue, weakness, nausea, tachycardia, dilated pupils, altered mental status, hypotension, and a body temperature over 105°F.
  • Requires fluid replacement based on lab findings; cooling measures are essential.

Heat Stroke

  • Severe emergency characterized by failure of thermoregulation; no sweating or compensation.
  • Treatment: Stabilization of ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation), rapid temperature reduction, possible ventilation and intubation.
  • Cooling techniques include ice bags in groins and axillae, electronic cooling blankets, and preventing shivering.

Hypothermia

  • Classified by degrees:
    • Mild: 93-95°F (shivering, confusion)
    • Moderate: 86-93°F (bradycardia, low blood pressure)
    • Severe: Below 86°F (may seem dead; requires warming).
  • Risks: Wet clothing, cold immersion, exposure, exhaustion, and wind.

Kidney Transplant Basics

  • Key differences between live and cadaver donors; importance of crossmatching and antibody compatibility.
  • Post-operative care critical; monitor fluid and electrolyte balance.
  • Types of rejection: hyperacute (immediate), acute (within 6 months, reversible), chronic (progressive).
  • Immunosuppression increases infection risk.

Burns Overview

  • Types:
    • First-degree: Superficial, painful, no scarring.
    • Second-degree: Involves epidermis and dermis; blisters present, requires medical treatment.
    • Third & Fourth-degree: Full thickness, no pain at burn site, requires surgical intervention.
  • Use the Parkland formula for fluid resuscitation: Total Body Surface Area (%TBSA) × 4 mL × weight (kg) over 24 hours.
  • Complications include hypovolemia, electrolyte imbalances, and potential for systemic responses.

Electrical Burns

  • More severe damage below the skin; can cause cardiac issues and must monitor for fractures due to muscle contractions.

Emergent Phase of Burns

  • Focus on airway management, fluid resuscitation, burn care, and infection prevention.