Wilderness and Rescue Medicine 8th Edition

Glossary 272

vital signs (VS) Measurements of body function including blood pressure, pulse, respiration, level of consciousness, skin color, and body core tem- perature. volume shock Inadequate blood volume result- ing in inadequate perfusion pressure in the cir- culatory system leading to inadequate cellular oxygenation. voluntary guarding Voluntary contraction of abdominal muscle as the patient protects themself from the pain caused by palpation. wilderness context A situation where access to definitive medical care is delayed by distance, logistics, or danger.