Page 219 - ATP-P 11th Ed

DEHYDRATION PROTOCOL

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
1. Troops in the field are often chronically dehydrated.
2. Prolonged missions, acute diarrhea (gastroenteritis), viral/bacterial infections,
and environmental factors (heat stress or strenuous activity) all may exacerbate
dehydration.
3. May also occur in cold or high altitude environments.
SECTION 2
Signs and Symptoms
1. Lightheadedness (worse with sudden standing)
2. Mild headache (especially in the morning)
3. Dry mucosa
4. Decreased urinary frequency and volume
5. Dark urine
6. Degradation in performance
Management
1. Increase oral fluids if tolerated.
a. If available, use carbohydrate/electrolyte drink mixes for fluid replacement diluted
to a 1:4 solution.
b. Avoid fluids containing caffeine.
2. If unable to tolerate PO fluids, use an initial bolus of 1L normal saline IV, followed by
repeat attempt at PO hydration. If still unable to tolerate PO hydration, repeat 1L bolus
of normal saline IV. If normal saline is not available, use available IV fluids.

Disposition
1. Monitor closely for recurrence of dehydration.
2. Priority evacuation if dehydration persists after treatment.

208 SECTION 2 TACTICAL MEDICAL EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS (TMEPs) ATP-P Handbook 11th Edition 209