Which action is recommended for adult heat cramps or heat exhaustion?

Which action is recommended for adult heat cramps or heat exhaustion?

• A. Ignore symptoms and continue activity
• B. Administer IV caffeine
• C. Move patient into shaded or air-conditioned area and remove excessive clothing
• D. Apply ice packs to the neck

Answer: (C)

Cooling and rehydrating the body are the priorities. Move the person to shade or air conditioning and remove excess clothing to help heat escape. If they can drink, offer water or an electrolyte beverage to rehydrate, and allow them to rest. Gentle stretching can help with cramps, but the main goal is cooling and fluids, not continuing activity. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen dehydration, and don’t ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical help if they worsen or don’t improve. Ice packs to the neck aren’t the primary treatment for heat exhaustion; focus on a cooler environment and hydration first.

Cooling and rehydrating the body are the priorities. Move the person to shade or air conditioning and remove excess clothing to help heat escape. If they can drink, offer water or an electrolyte beverage to rehydrate, and allow them to rest. Gentle stretching can help with cramps, but the main goal is cooling and fluids, not continuing activity. Avoid caffeine, which can worsen dehydration, and don’t ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical help if they worsen or don’t improve. Ice packs to the neck aren’t the primary treatment for heat exhaustion; focus on a cooler environment and hydration first.