What is recommended treatment for heat exhaustion?

• A. Provide oxygen therapy
• B. Administer cold water intravenously
• C. Remove the patient from the heat source
• D. Seal the area and wait for symptoms to pass

Answer: (C)

The key action in heat exhaustion is to remove the person from the heat source so they stop taking on more heat and can start cooling down. Moving them to a cooler environment, such as shade or air conditioning, reduces ongoing heat exposure and gives the body a chance to recover. After relocation, loosen tight clothing, use cooling methods like a fan or cool damp cloths, and provide fluids if they can drink without choking. The goal is to lower the body's heat load and restore hydration, not to push fluids or apply extreme interventions. Oxygen therapy isn’t needed unless there’s a breathing problem, and giving intravenous cold fluids is an advanced treatment not appropriate as a first step in most cases. Waiting in the hot area or sealing it off while symptoms persist won’t help and could allow the condition to worsen toward heat stroke. If symptoms endure or worsen, seek medical help promptly, especially if confusion, fainting, vomiting, or loss of coordination occurs.