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Exertional heat stroke — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental MedicineExertional heat strokeDIPIMCDipIMC

A marathon runner collapses and is confused, with hot skin and a core temperature of 41 degrees Celsius. The heart rate is markedly raised.

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

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Correct answer: A — Begin rapid active cooling immediately and transport.

Exertional heat stroke is a time-critical emergency in which rapid active cooling, for example cold-water immersion or evaporative methods, reduces mortality and should begin at once. Antipyretics are ineffective because the problem is not a raised thermal set-point. Passive cooling alone is too slow for a core temperature of 41 degrees Celsius.

Reference: JRCALC Clinical Guidelines