Wilderness and Rescue Medicine 8th Edition

Glossary 274

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.