US-Army-IS-0825-medical-course-Combat-Lifesaver-Course-0825CC1

LESSON 17
INITIATE AN INTRAVENOUS INFUSION
FOR HYPOVOLEMIC SHOCK
TASK
Initiate an intravenous infusion (I.V.).
CONDITIONS
Given a simulated casualty and needed supplies.
STANDARD
Score a GO on the performance checklist.
REFERENCES
FM 21-11, First Aid for Soldiers.
STP 8-91B15-SM-TG, MOS 91B Medical Specialist, Skill Levels 1/2/3/4/5.
STP 21-1-SMCT, Soldier's Manual of Common Tasks, Skill Level 1.
17-1. INTRODUCTION
The most important tasks of the combat lifesaver are to control hypovolemic (low blood
volume) shock by controling hemorrhage and initiating an intravenous infusion (I.V.). The
I.V. fluid replaces fluid lost from the casualty's circulatory system. The I.V. fluids contain
both water and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride compounds). Left
untreated, hypovolemic shock can result in death.
17-2. IDENTIFY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPOVOLEMIC SHOCK
Hypovolemic shock is a condition caused by a sudden decrease in volume of fluid in the
body's blood circulatory system. On the battlefield, severe blood loss or severe burns
usually bring about this condition. Hypovolemic shock can also be caused by dehydration
due to severe vomiting, diarrhea, or profuse sweating (heat injury). Watch for signs and
symptoms of hypovolemic shock if any trauma resulting in a significant loss of body fluids
occurs. When indications of hypovolemic shock are present, take steps to replace lost
body fluids by initiating an intravenous infusion (I.V.). The quicker the casualty receives I.V.
fluids, the more rapid the improvement in his condition. Signs and symptoms of
hypovolemic shock include the following:
Rapid or severe bleeding:
External bleeding from a visible wound.
Internal bleeding from a trauma with no visible wound (usually seen as swelling or
discoloration).
Severe burns (second and third degree burns over 20 percent or more of the casualty's
skin surface).
IS0825 17-1