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Exertional heat stroke — RCPSC EM MCQ

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EasyEnvironmental emergenciesExertional heat strokeRCPSC EM

A 19-year-old runner collapses during a humid race. Rectal temperature is 41.2°C, GCS is 10, skin is hot, and sodium is 139 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate initial management?

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Correct answer: B — Immediate rapid cooling with cold-water immersion or evaporative methods

Exertional heat stroke is defined by severe hyperthermia and CNS dysfunction. Survival depends on immediate rapid cooling, ideally cold-water immersion when available.

Reference: Wilderness Medical Society heat illness guidance; Canadian event medicine practice