As the Metro area prepares to be plunged into the deep freeze this weekend, The Emergency Department at The University of Kansas Health System continues to see patients for weather-related problems. Here are the numbers since Tuesday:
Total patients: 30
Age range: 15 to 88
Patients admitted: 4
Two patients were found in the snow. One has died, the other was discharged.
Conditions include frostbite, shortness of breath from snow shoveling, motor vehicle accidents, slipping and falling on ice.
Doctors warn everyone to stay indoors as much as possible this weekend as high temperatures for both days will hover around zero degrees. They have special advice for those attending the Chiefs game Saturday night:
- The Kansas City Chiefs and the medical team are prepared for this weekend’s bitter cold during the first playoff game of the season.
- Seven First aid stations will be staffed and ready.
- Frostbite is the main concern. It is important for the staff to diagnose it properly because getting frostbite and going back into the cold is one of the worst things you can do.
- Gloves and handwarmers will be available if needed for kids.
- Be careful with alcohol use. It can be dangerous for some people in cold weather.
- Dress for C-O-L-D:
- CLEAN clothes
- Avoid OVERHEATING
- Use 2+ LAYERS
- Stay Dry
Here is something to warm your heart on this freezing weekend. Babies recently delivered at The University of Kansas Health System and spending time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit have been dressed properly for this weekend’s Chiefs game. Press Control and click on the arrow to open the link to 20 photos, all of which may be used on the air.
