A patient is confused and combative after playing football in the open sun on an extremely hot day. On the field, you find his airway open, respirations tachypneic, but adequate, and radial pulse rapid. His skin is hot and dry. After applying oxygen, your next action would be to:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is likely experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which requires immediate cooling and removal from the hot environment. Moving the patient to the air-conditioned ambulance will provide a cooler environment and allow for further assessment and treatment. Providing cold water may exacerbate the patient's symptoms and should only be given if the patient is able to swallow safely. Applying cool compresses to the arms and legs may also be helpful, but should not delay transport to a cooler environment. Ascertaining if the patient has any medical problems is important, but should not delay immediate treatment for the heat-related illness.

A Patient Is Confused and Combative After Playing Football in the Open