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Heat stroke — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental emergenciesHeat strokeRCPSC EM

CTAS 1. A 21-year-old runner collapses during a humid race. Rectal temperature is 41.3°C, he is confused, HR 156, and skin is hot. Sodium is 148 and glucose is normal. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Immediate evaporative or cold-water cooling

Exertional heat stroke requires immediate rapid cooling; antipyretics are ineffective because the mechanism is heat load, not hypothalamic fever.

Reference: Wilderness Medical Society heat illness guideline; Canadian Athletic Therapists emergency guidance