Which action is part of heat stroke management?

• A. Have EMS call
• B. Remove from heat
• C. Aggressive cooling, including immersion in cool water
• D. Give cool drink only if alert

Answer: (C)

Rapid cooling to lower the core body temperature is the critical step in heat stroke management. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency, and the fastest way to reduce the risk of organ damage is to bring the body temperature down quickly. Immersion in cool water provides the most rapid and even cooling of the whole body, making it the best option if available. If immersion isn’t possible, other rapid cooling methods should be used, but they’re not as effective as full-body immersion.

Calling emergency services and moving the person out of the heat are important supportive steps, but they don’t address the urgent need to reduce core temperature as effectively as immersion does. Giving fluids by mouth is not advised if the person isn’t alert or may choke, since heat stroke can impair consciousness. If they’re fully alert and able to swallow, small sips may be considered, but cooling remains the priority.