Page 217 - ATP-P 11th Ed

COUGH PROTOCOL

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Usually viral etiology, but may also occur with high altitude pulmonary edema
(HAPE) and pneumonia.

Signs and Symptoms
1. Cough with or without scant sputum production
2. Often accompanied by other signs and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection SECTION 2
(i.e., sore throat and rhinorrhea).
Management
1. Treat symptomatically using benzocaine (Cepacol ) lozenges or other appropriate med-
®
ications) when the findings on history and physical do not suggest pneumonia.
2. Albuterol (Ventolin ) metered dose inhaler 3–4 puffs q4hr may also help control
®
coughing.
3. Encourage PO hydration.
4. Avoid respiratory irritants (smoke, aerosols, etc.)
5. If associated with URI symptoms, treat per Allergic Rhinitis/Hay Fever/Cold-Like
Symptoms Protocol.
6. If at altitude, pull balaclava over nose and breathe through it for warm humidified air.

Disposition
1. Evacuation is usually not required.
2. If accompanied by fever, chest pain, dyspnea, and/or colored sputum (green,
dark yellow, or red-tinged), treat per Bronchitis/Pneumonia Protocol.

206 SECTION 2 TACTICAL MEDICAL EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS (TMEPs) ATP-P Handbook 11th Edition 207