Dehydration results from an imbalance between fluid intake and output. It is exacerbated by high ambient temperature, increased or excessive exertion, decreased level of consciousness (LOC), increased metabolic rate, and raised body temperature. Patients who use illicit substances, particularly sympathomimetic drugs, are at increased risk of rapidly developing significant dehydration.
Early recognition and management of dehydration in patients with illicit substance toxicity is required to prevent progression to hypovolaemic shock.
Other pre-hospital guidelines