Out-of-Hospital Cold Water Immersion for Classic (Non-Exertional) Heat Stroke Guided by Real-Time Core Temperature Monitoring: A Case Series

Prehosp Emerg Care. 2023;27(6):832-837. doi: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2148795. Epub 2022 Nov 29.

Abstract

Heat stroke is a problem that occurs primarily in the out-of-hospital environment. "Cool first, transport second" has been emphasized in consensus statements and systematic reviews regarding the treatment of exertional heat stroke by both EMS and the sports medicine/athletic training communities. However, there remains little guidance on cooling recommendations for the out-of-hospital care of non-exertional heat stroke or classic heat stroke. There is no consensus on the safety or feasibility of cooling classic heat stroke patients in the out-of-hospital environment using cold-water immersion. This case series describes the successful application of on-scene cold-water immersion for five classic heat stroke patients guided by real-time core temperature monitoring.

MeSH terms

  • Body Temperature
  • Cold Temperature
  • Emergency Medical Services*
  • Heat Stroke* / therapy
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Immersion
  • Temperature
  • Water

Substances

  • Water