Introduction: crush injuries appear as a result of natural disasters and accidents resulting from human activity. Crush syndrome is the result of long-term major pressure exerted on a body part with high muscle mass. This causes muscles to break down, which is known as rhabdomyolysis, causing the release of myoglobin into the bloodstream. Aim: The thesis aims to utilize a literature review to describe crush syndrome and the role of medical nurses working with crush syndrome patients. Methodology: a descriptive method was applied to a systematic overview of Slovenian as well as foreign literature. The relevant literature was sought through PubMed, GoogleScholar and DiKUL, as well as the MedLine database, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. Peer reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2019 and freely available in full were used. Results: the injured patients initially show no signs of affliction but their medical condition quickly changes. Since crush syndrome occurs rarely paramedics can have difficulties diagnosing it. When it is difficult for the first responders to get to the injured, they call upon other services able to provide technical support for help in reducing the time needed to help the injured. The injured are approached and treated in accordance with ITLS guidelines. The most appropriate measure in treating crush syndrome is fluid replacement. Discussion: The treatment of the injured must begin as soon as it is safe to approach. Adhering to ITLS guidelines enables a quicker work process and a more systematic treatment. Even with no precisely defined protocol for fluid replacement this measure reduces the occurrence of kidney failure and fatality rate. Conclusion: The rare occurrence of crush syndrome demands further training of medical personnel in rare medical emergency situations.
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