An Evidence-Based Algorithm of Management of Heatstroke in the Emergency Department.

Abstract

Annual rates of heat illness and heat-related deaths have been increasing across the United States as more regions of the country have been experiencing heat waves of extreme ambient temperatures of prolonged durations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat illnesses have become the leading cause of weather-related deaths. This article critiques and describes the findings of a systematic review by C. Rublee et al. (2021). The review was conducted to develop an evidence-based algorithm specific for management of heatstroke in the emergency department with implications for improving recognition, initiating rapid cooling, and providing supportive care to reduce patient mortality and morbidity.