What is the recommended first step in treating heat stroke in the field?

• A. Rapid cooling via evaporative methods or immersion; remove excess clothing; and hydration as available
• B. Administer antibiotics
• C. Apply ice packs only to the neck
• D. Elevate the legs and give pain meds

Answer: (A)

Rapid cooling to lower core body temperature is the first and most important action in the field for heat stroke. Use aggressive cooling methods such as evaporative cooling (spray with water and fan) or immersion in cool water, with excess clothing removed to maximize heat loss. Hydration should be provided if feasible, but cooling should not be delayed for fluids. Antibiotics aren’t indicated for heat stroke, and relying on ice packs only to the neck won’t adequately reduce overall body temperature. Elevating the legs and giving pain meds don’t address the overheating and can distract from the critical cooling step.