Paramedic National Registry Practice

What is the priority treatment for a heat stroke victim?

1. Cooling the body

2. Administration of a saline solution

3. Rapid transportation to emergency care

4. Providing comfort measures

The correct answer is: Cooling the body

Cooling the body is the priority treatment for a heat stroke victim because heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature regulation fails and the core temperature rises to dangerous levels, often above 104°F (40°C). This condition can lead to serious damage to internal organs, brain, and overall physiological function. Rapidly cooling the body is essential to prevent or minimize these potential complications and reduce mortality risk. Effective cooling methods include removing the patient from the heat source, applying cool water to the skin, using ice packs in areas such as the armpits, groin, and neck, or even placing them in a cool body of water if available. The goal is to quickly lower the core temperature back to a safe level. While other treatments like the administration of saline solution, rapid transportation to emergency care, and providing comfort measures are also important in the overall management of heat stroke, they are secondary to the immediate need for cooling. Without adequate cooling, the risks of severe injury or death increase significantly, making it the foremost priority in the acute management of heat stroke.