Medical Lane
M4

HEAT INJURY

5 min (identify) 5 min (treat heat stroke)

Conditions: You see a Soldier who appears to be suffering from a heat injury. Casualty is responsive but confused. On a FOB, non-CBRNE.

Understanding This Task

This is a two-part task: written identification of all three heat injuries (signs, symptoms, and treatments), then a hands-on treatment of heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency — begin cooling immediately, even before removing clothes.

Key thresholds: Heat exhaustion = up to 104°F. Heat stroke = above 106°F within 15 minutes, with hot/dry skin and confusion.

Common NO-GO Mistakes

  • At least 3 correct signs/symptoms for heat exhaustion and heat stroke
  • 100% accuracy for heat cramps identification
  • Failing to request MEDEVAC for heat stroke
  • Not beginning aggressive cooling immediately

Task Basis: 081-000-0016

Video Resources

ESB 2022: Heat Injury — 1-2 SBCT
Heat injury evaluation and treatment for ESB
Heat Casualty Prevention
Heat injury recognition, prevention, and treatment
Critical Notes
  • Heat stroke is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY — begin cooling IMMEDIATELY.
  • 100% accuracy for heat cramps. At least 3 correct for exhaustion and stroke.
  • Always request MEDEVAC for heat stroke.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

0/4 GO
  1. 1

    Identify: Heat Cramps

    • Signs: Muscle cramps of arms, legs, and/or abdomen.
    • Treatment: Move to shade and rest. Loosen clothing. Oral rehydration.
  2. 2

    Identify: Heat Exhaustion

    • Signs: Profuse sweating, pale/gray/moist/cool skin. Headache. Weakness. Dizziness. Temperature up to 104°F.
    • Treatment: Move to shade. Oral rehydration (unless nauseated). Loosen/remove clothing and boots. Pour water and fan. Cover with ice sheet, elevate legs.
  3. 3

    Identify: Heat Stroke CRITICAL

    • Signs: Core temperature above 106°F within 15 min. Hot, dry skin. Headache. Dizziness. Nausea. Confusion. Weakness. Weak/rapid pulse and respirations.
    • Treatment: Call for evacuation. Cool by ANY means available (even before removing clothes). Remove outer garments. Lay down, elevate legs. Ice sheets/packs to groin, armpits, neck. Immerse in cold water if available. Cover all but face with soaked ice sheet. Evacuate.
  4. 4

    Treat for heat stroke (hands-on)

    • Call for evacuation (verbalize).
    • Begin aggressive cooling immediately.
    • Remove outer garments and protective clothing.
    • Lay casualty down, elevate legs.
    • Apply ice packs to groin, armpits, and around neck.
    • Immerse in cold water if available.
    • Cover all but face with soaked ice sheet.
    • Evacuate (verbalize).
M3: Restore Breathing M5: Control Bleeding