What is the first step in treating hyperthermia?

• A. Move the patient to a cooler environment.
• B. Give aspirin.
• C. Apply heat to the patient.
• D. Administer IV fluids.

Answer: (A)

In hyperthermia, the priority is to lower the body's core temperature as quickly as possible by removing the heat load. Moving the patient to a cooler environment and removing excess clothing immediately initiates heat loss through convection and evaporation, which is the fastest way to reduce core temperature and prevent organ damage.

Giving aspirin doesn’t address the heat burden and isn’t effective for hyperthermia. Applying heat would directly worsen the condition. Administering IV fluids is important for hydration and stabilization, and can support cooling, but cooling should begin right away, so the first action is to place the patient in a cooler environment and start cooling measures.