Regional Emergency Medical Advisory Committee of New York City
Prehospital Basic Life Support Protocols
Copyright January 1996 (8/96)

431 HEAT-RELATED EMERGENCIES

Cool the environment or move the patient to a cooler environment.

Remove excessive clothing.

Administer oxygen.

Restrict physical activity.

Assess for shock and treat, if appropriate. (See Protocol #415.)

For Special Considerations, see below.

Transport.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

HEAT CRAMPS

Provide water or Normal Saline (0.9 NS) by mouth.


HEAT EXHAUSTION

Provide water or Normal Saline (0.9 NS) by mouth if the patient is conscious, has a gag reflex, and is able to drink without assistance.


HEAT STROKE

Monitor the airway.

Cool the patient rapidly.

NOTE:DO NOT LOWER BODY TEMPERATURE SO AS TO PRODUCE SHIVERING. THE COOLING OF THE PATIENT SHOULD NOT DELAY TRANSPORT.

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