Heat-Related Illness Standard

Question 1

When a patient is experiencing a heat-related illness, what threats to life/limb/function should you consider?

Answer 1

1. Heat stroke

2. Hypovolemic shock

Question 2

What are some heat-related illnesses to consider in setting of a hot and/or humid environment?

Answer 2

1. Heat syncope
2. Heat cramps
3. Heat exhaustion
4. Heat stroke

Question 3

When a heat-related illness is suspected, what assessments should be apart of your secondary survey?

Answer 3

1. Central nervous system
2. Mouth, for state of hydration
3. Skin, for temperature, colour, condition and state of hydration
4. Extremities, for circulation, sensation, and movement
5. Temperature

Question 4

After completing a secondary survey (minimal a primary survey) what actions should be taken?

Answer 4

1. Move the patient to a cooler environment
2. Remove heavy or excess layers of clothing
3. If available provide water/electrolyte-containing fluid in small quantities if the patient is conscious, cooperative, follow directions and is not nauseated or vomiting

Question 5

If you suspect heat exhaustion what additional actions should be performed?

Answer 5

1. Move the patient to the ambulance

2. Remove as much clothing as possible

Question 6

If you suspect heat stroke what additional actions should be performed?

Answer 6

1. Move the patient to the ambulance
2. Remove as much clothing as possible
3. Withhold oral fluids
4. Cover patient with wet sheets
5. Apply cold packs to axillae, groin, neck and head

Question 7

For a patient with a heat-related illness, when should cooling procedures be discontinued?

Answer 7

• Skin temperature feels normal
• Generalized shivering develops
• LOC normalizes