As this week we will focus on what a parent can do in those precious few minutes after a baby or young toddler have suffered heat stroke. Before emergency personnel arrive to take over, we must have the knowledge to help because it can mean life or death! The following steps are not chronologically listed and can be altered pending on environment and the availability of resources or facilities nearby. These steps may aid in better recuperation of our loved ones when they are then transferred to hospital care.
Call an ambulance!!!
After a young toddler or baby had exhibited signs of heat stroke (most visible symptoms are convulsions, seizures, fainting, slurred speech, or dizziness), the most important step is to NOTIFY EMERGENCY PERSONNEL for assistance and informing them of parent’s CURRENT LOCATION. Once that is completed, it is vital that the young toddler or baby be moved to a cooler location, or if possible, an indoor air-conditioned facility. If an indoor facility is not available, a cooler area such as under a shaded area or under a tree of some sort may help.
Remove all related and excessive clothing: If applicable, removing any additional unwanted clothing may help in reducing the temperature of the baby or the young toddler. This can be done in conjunction with cooling efforts as well.
Cold water immersion: If there is access to water facilities such as sink or bathtubs, immerse the baby or young toddler into the water until the neck area only. Ensure to stir the water vigorously while cooling. If there no bathtubs or sinks available, placing cold towels on all parts of the body can help as well. Ensure that every two to three minutes, replenish the towels with cold water and repeat this cycle.
Monitor vital signs: As a parent, he/she needs to monitor vital signs such as heart rate and respiratory rate to ensure that the baby or young toddler is safe at all times.
DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS! If the baby or young toddler is confused or not conscious, do not try to give fluids to them as it may cause them to choke on the fluids.
Once the emergency personnel arrive, the parent must inform them of what he/she had done for the past few minutes for smooth transition. Remember, every second counts for our little loved one! The steps above can just possibly save their lives!
Pic source:
www.cchealth.org/heat/heat-illness.php
