How to Treat Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency, requiring aggressive cooling and immediate evacuation.

Things You'll Need

  • Notebooks
  • Sports drinks
  • Pens
  • Thermometers
  • Water Filters
  • Oral Rehydration Salts
  • Rectal Thermometer
  • Bandannas
  • Coolers
  • Ice
  • Wilderness First Aid Classes
  • Cold Compresses
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate for heat stroke (see "How to Assess Heat Illness"). If you suspect heat stroke, treat with the following steps.

    • 2

      Move the patient out of direct sunlight, preferably into a cool, shaded area.

    • 3

      Have the patient lie flat and elevate his or her feet.

    • 4

      Remove heat-retaining clothing.

    • 5

      Wet the patient down and fan him or her, or immerse the patient in cool water.

    • 6

      Place ice packs on the patient's head, back of the neck, armpits, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and groin.

    • 7

      Hydrate well with lots of water, a diluted sports drink or oral rehydration solution, but only if the patient is conscious enough to hold a cup and drink unassisted.

    • 8

      Monitor body temperature frequently, keeping careful notes on how long the patient remains at a given temperature. Transfer these notes when you transfer care.

    • 9

      Evacuate immediately, continually monitoring and writing down the patient's body temperature.