Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

9 Other Emergencies

First aid for heatstroke focuses on lowering the body temperature quickly as the patient is experiencing a life threat. Cool the body, monitor ABCs closely, provide care for shock, and get medical help as soon as possible.

Heat stroke – First aid • Place the patient at rest in a cool or shaded area. • Remove outer clothing. • Immerse the patient up to their neck in cool to cold water. (Monitor the patient closely). • If this is not possible: 1) Wrap the patient in wet sheets or 2) Sponge bathe the patient with cool water, concentrating on the neck, armpits and groin, and 3) Fan the patient. • When skin is cool to the touch, dry the patient and cover them with a dry sheet. • Provide ongoing care to handover, monitoring ABCs and treating for shock. Repeat cooling measures as necessary.

patient suffering from heat stroke

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