What is the recommended treatment for heat exhaustion?

What is the recommended treatment for heat exhaustion?

• A. Move to cooler place, turn on air vents, give water, notify Medical Assistance PA and POC; do not give alcohol or caffeine
• B. Give alcohol to rehydrate
• C. Immersive cold bath until numbness passes
• D. Ignore symptoms and continue flight

Answer: (A)

Managing heat exhaustion centers on cooling the body and replacing fluids. The recommended approach is to move the person to a cooler environment with good airflow, have them rest, and give small sips of cool water to rehydrate, while avoiding alcohol or caffeine because these substances can worsen dehydration. In a setting like flight, also notify Medical Assistance and the flight’s point of contact for further guidance. If symptoms persist or worsen—new or ongoing dizziness, confusion, vomiting, or fainting—seek medical evaluation promptly. Immersion in a cold bath isn’t a standard treatment for heat exhaustion and can cause unnecessary discomfort or complications; it’s not needed here. Ignoring symptoms and continuing activity is dangerous because heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency.

Managing heat exhaustion centers on cooling the body and replacing fluids. The recommended approach is to move the person to a cooler environment with good airflow, have them rest, and give small sips of cool water to rehydrate, while avoiding alcohol or caffeine because these substances can worsen dehydration. In a setting like flight, also notify Medical Assistance and the flight’s point of contact for further guidance. If symptoms persist or worsen—new or ongoing dizziness, confusion, vomiting, or fainting—seek medical evaluation promptly. Immersion in a cold bath isn’t a standard treatment for heat exhaustion and can cause unnecessary discomfort or complications; it’s not needed here. Ignoring symptoms and continuing activity is dangerous because heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency.