Treat suspected exertional heat stroke with cold-water immersion

Practice the sequence you already learned for “Treat suspected exertional heat stroke with cold-water immersion” until the order feels automatic. Drill NATA heat-stroke order from athletic-training. The athlete is not loaded into an ambulance first if a tub can be filled on site; cool then transport.

1. Recognize collapse plus CNS change in the heat.
2. Obtain a rectal temperature when trained and equipped to do so.
3. Call EMS.
4. Move the athlete to the cooling site.
5. Begin cold-water immersion immediately.
6. Stir the water.
7. Support the head.
8. Cool to the taught rectal stop point of 102°F (38.9°C).
9. Transfer to EMS after cooling has started, not instead of cooling.
10. Do not rely on ice bags or shade alone for suspected EHS.