How do I cool my patient with heatstroke?
Heatstroke
AMS
Core body temp > 40.5 C (105 F)
Exposure to high temperatures or exercise
Cooling down their core temperature ASAP provides mortality and morbidity benefit
Delayed treatment can have a mortality as high as 70%!
We learn that evaporative cooling is the best method
(spraying tepid water and cooling with fans).
HOWEVER, when humidity is high this may not work!
Because sweat on the skin cannot evaporate into the surrounding air and body temperature cooling fails.
This occurs in some studies at humidity levels >50-55%
So what else can you do?
Ice Bath
Practically speaking, place the patient in a body bag up to their neck and add ice and water.
If an ice bath isn't possible, apply ice packs to neck, armpits, and groin.
Stay cool!