Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

Rapid cooling is the most critical intervention for heat stroke, which this patient is experiencing. While all the options listed are important, immediate cooling takes precedence to prevent further organ damage and potential death. Immersion in ice water or applying ice packs to major blood vessels (neck, axilla, groin) can rapidly lower core body temperature. IV fluid administration is important but secondary to cooling. Oxygen therapy may be necessary but is not the primary intervention. Antipyretics are not effective in treating heat stroke as the condition is not caused by a fever-inducing illness.