Hyperthermia - Emergency Management

Hyperthermia

·        Heat Exhaustion: hypovolaemic shock due to fluid loss through sweating. Cool, restore volume, position supine with legs raised

·        Heat stroke: failure of heat regulation through failure to sweat. Hot, flushed and dry. If temperature > 40 degrees ® neurological disturbances. Rapid cooling, cool iv fluids

·        Reduces tolerance time for arrest

·        Cooling can be external or internal

·        Watch electrolytes and fluid replacement following arrest

·        Watch for tendency to cerebral oedema and multi-organ failure