5 Steps for Heatstroke First Aid! A Golden Guide for On-Site Treatment of Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

When heat exhaustion or heatstroke occurs, the core principles of on-site first aid are 'Shade, Loosen Clothing, Cool Down, Hydrate, and Seek Medical Attention.' Regardless of the situation, follow these steps: 1. Move to a Cool Place: Immediately move the patient to a cool, well-ventilated area or an air-conditioned room. 2. Loosen Clothing: Unbutton shirts, loosen belts, and remove outer clothing to help the skin dissipate heat. 3. Physical Cooling: • Apply ice packs or wet towels to areas with major blood vessels, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. • Spray the entire body with room-temperature water and fan to accelerate evaporative cooling. 4. Assess Consciousness and Seek Medical Attention: • Heatstroke (Unconscious): Do not give fluids to prevent choking and suffocation. Immediately call 119 for transport to a hospital and continue cooling while waiting. • Heat Exhaustion (Conscious): Fluids and electrolytes can be given. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after rest and cooling, medical attention is also necessary. 🔖 Preparing an Electrolyte Solution for Heat Exhaustion Patients If commercial sports drinks are unavailable, you can refer to the World Health Organization's (WHO) guidelines for oral rehydration salts to prepare drinking water with an appropriate ratio of water and electrolytes for conscious heat exhaustion patients. Use clean drinking water for preparation, add appropriate amounts of salt and sugar to aid water absorption, and have the patient drink slowly in small sips to help replenish lost electrolytes. If the patient is unconscious or continues to feel unwell, do not force them to drink and seek medical attention as soon as possible.