Re: Insensible losses at altitude

[Helodoc@aol.com]

The problem is not insensible loss due to ALTITUDE.  The problem is that in 
most cabins like you describe the relative humidity is around 1-2%.  That is 
why so many people complain about the air in commercial aircraft.

If the patient is intubated, you may wish to use some sort of "nose" device 
which traps the moisture from the expired air and uses that to humidify the 
inspired air.  Probably a great culture medium, but for most transports that 
shouldn't be a consideration.

If the patient isn't intubated, you might try one of the bubbler devices that 
some hospitals use to run oxygen through.  That might make the patient more 
comfortable.

If you are trying to figure out how much fluid to run, the best way, 
regardless of setting, is to watch I&O, and vital signs.

Dave Thomson

David P. Thomson, MS, MD, FACEP
Associate Professor
Department of Emergency Medicine
SUNY Upstate Medical University
750 E. Adams St.
Syracuse, NY 13210
315.464.6219 voice
315.464.6229 fax

_______________________________________________
Flightmed mailing list