Lifeguard In-Service Topic
Caring for Sudden Illnesses
Sudden illnesses can present at any time and can be a challenge to figure out what the patient's condition is, even for paramedics with many more tools than a lifeguard has. While it is helpful to be able to determine the cause of the illness, more important is providing care for any life-threatening conditions, taking a good S.A.M.P.L.E history, and calling 9-1-1 if the situation calls for it.
Key points from this Section
Many sudden illnesses have similar signs and symptoms which can include:
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If you suspect someone is experiencing a sudden illness, you should follow these general care steps:
- Care for any life-threatening conditions first.
- Monitor the victim's condition and water for changes in LOC
- Keep the victim comfortable and reassure them
- Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated
- Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, unless they are awake, able to swallow and follow simpler commands and intake is indicated based on treatment recommendations.
- Care for any other problems that develop, such as vomitting