HEAT EMERGENCIES                                                                                                                                    SOG 9.18

Basic

I. Initial Assessment

Remove patient from the source of heat.
Administer highest concentration of oxygen, as tolerated.
II. Focused History and Physical Exam
Assess for skin temperature.

Moist, Pale, Normal to Cool Skin:
Cool the patient by applying cold, wet compresses and/or fan lightly.
Place patient in supine position with feet elevated 8 to 12 inches.
If responsive, have patient drink cool water.

Hot Skin, Moist or Dry:
Pour cool water over the patient's body.
Place cold packs in the patient's groin, each side of the neck, in the armpits, and behind each knee to cool large vessels.
III. Ongoing Assessment
Continue to monitor patient's skin temperature.
Reevaluate mental status of patient.