Environmental Hyperthermia / Heat Stress (Adult) |
| Assess | |
| • Accurately assess temperature • BGL if altered conscious state • Perfusion status |
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| Stop | |
| This guideline is not intended for the management the febrile patient due to infection | |
| Cooling techniques - initiated and maintained until temp. is <38˚C - Shelter / remove from heat source - Ensure airflow over Pt - Remove all clothing except underwear - Apply tepid water using spray bottle or wet towels |
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If significant dehydration or poor perfusion, treat as per Hypovolaemia |
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| Provide initial Normal Saline 20ml/kg IV and reassess VSS and temp | |
| Continue to administer Normal Saline if pt remains poorly perfused or significantly dehydrated - If treating with IV fluid and pt temp is >40°C, cool fluids are preferred if available (stored usually at <8°C) - Use cooled fluid until temperature is <39°C. If ongoing fluid administration is required change to ambient temp fluid |
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| Treat low BGL as per Hypoglycaemia | |
| Airway and ventilation support with 100% O2 as required | |
| Assess response to Mx | |
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| Special Notes |
| • Patient body temperatures of < 40°C, can normally be managed with basic cooling techniques alone |
| • During cooling, the patient should be monitored for the onset of shivering. Shivering may increase heat production and cooling measures should be adjusted to avoid its onset |
| • Gentle handling of the patient is essential. Position flat or lateral and avoid head up position to avoid causing arrhythmias |
| • Be wary of fluid volumes in renal dialysis patients causing fluid overload. Administer judicious increments with volumes not usually exceeding 10 ml/kg |
| • This guideline is not intended for the management the febrile patient due to infection |