Back to: Basic First Aid Senior Living Professionals
A milder condition such as heat cramps, can quickly turn into heat exhaustion. It is critical to recognize and give first aid for heat-related emergencies early. If this condition is not treated, it can lead to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion may occur if a person is in the heat for a long period of time or is sweating a lot. It often affects athletes, firefighters, construction workers, and factory workers, and those who wear heavy clothing in hot and humid environments.
The signs of heat exhaustion are similar of heat stroke:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling faint or fatigued
- Heavy sweating
Actions to help a person who has heat exhaustion:
- Get the first aid kit.
- Wear PPE.
- Phone 911.
- Have the person lie down in a cool place.
- Remove as much of the person’s clothing as possible.
- Cool the person with a cool water spray. If cool water spray is not available, place cool, damp cloths on the neck, armpits, and groin.
- If the person is responsive and can drink, have the person drink something with sugar and electrolytes, such as a sports drink or juice, or water if these are not available.