What is the recommended treatment for heat exhaustion?

• A. Sponge with cool water and provide oral fluids as tolerated
• B. Immersion in ice water
• C. Administer warm blankets
• D. No fluids

Answer: (A)

Heat exhaustion is treated by cooling the body and rehydrating. The recommended approach is to sponge the person with cool water and offer oral fluids as tolerated. This combination helps lower core temperature while replacing fluids lost through sweating, addressing both overheating and dehydration and supporting quicker recovery. Move the person to a cooler environment, remove excess clothing, and monitor for any worsening symptoms.

Immersion in ice water is reserved for more severe heat illness like heat stroke and can be too aggressive for heat exhaustion, potentially causing shivering or other complications. Administering warm blankets would add heat and worsen the condition. Not giving fluids leaves dehydration unaddressed and can worsen symptoms.