Exertional Heat Stroke Knowledge and Management among Emergency Medical Service Providers.

Area of Science:

• Emergency medicine
• Environmental health
• Medical education

Background:

• Exertional heat stroke (EHS) is a life-threatening condition requiring prompt recognition and management.
• Emergency medical services (EMS) providers play a crucial role in the initial care of EHS patients.
• Assessing EMS providers' knowledge and capabilities is vital for improving EHS outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the knowledge of EMS providers in the United States regarding exertional heat stroke (EHS).
• To assess the current capabilities and available equipment within EMS for recognizing and managing EHS.
• To identify gaps in training and resources for effective EHS care by EMS providers.

Main Methods:

• A 25-item questionnaire was administered to currently practicing EMS providers across the United States.
• Data were collected on provider demographics, experience, prior EHS treatment, knowledge assessment scores, and available equipment.
• A total of 216 responses were received, with 183 complete questionnaires analyzed.

Main Results:

• Respondents demonstrated low knowledge of EHS, with an average score of approximately 37% correct.
• Over half of respondents (55%) had previously treated an EHS patient, yet knowledge gaps persisted.
• Limited access to appropriate temperature assessment tools (e.g., rectal thermometers) and effective cooling methods was reported.

Conclusions:

• EMS providers exhibit inadequate knowledge of EHS, irrespective of their experience level or prior patient encounters.
• There is a significant deficit in the availability of essential equipment for EHS assessment and treatment within EMS systems.
• Updated, evidence-based training and improved equipment provision are urgently needed to enhance EMS response to EHS.