27. A simple improvised prehospital method to warm intravenous fluid

A simple improvised prehospital method to warm intravenous fluid

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CEUs: 2 Clinical

Average read time: 15 to 20 minutes

Short Summary of the Article:

The article titled “A Simple Improvised Prehospital Method to Warm Intravenous Fluid” investigates a practical and innovative method for warming intravenous (IV) fluids in prehospital settings using a vehicle’s dashboard defroster vent. Warming IV fluids is critical in preventing hypothermia during trauma resuscitation, where cold IV fluids could contribute to further drops in body temperature. The study was conducted in a simulated environment using a sport utility vehicle’s defroster to warm a saline bag. The research found that positioning the IV fluid bag on the dashboard defroster significantly raised the fluid’s temperature compared to fluids left at ambient temperature. This simple improvised method is proposed as a practical solution for emergency medical services (EMS) personnel in austere environments where traditional warming equipment may not be available.

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this activity, you should have an understanding of:

1. The importance of warming IV fluids in trauma care to prevent hypothermia and the risks associated with administering cold fluids during resuscitation.
2. The effectiveness of using a vehicle’s defroster as an improvised method for warming IV fluids in prehospital settings, providing a simple solution when traditional warming devices are not available.
3. The limitations and practical considerations of this method, such as the importance of administering the warmed fluids promptly to prevent heat loss and the impact of environmental conditions on the warming process.

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