What is the first step in treating heat stroke?

The first step in treating heat stroke is to move the individual to a shaded or cooler area and place them in a position that promotes circulation, often referred to as the shock position. This action is crucial because it helps immediately reduce the body temperature and prevent further heat-related damage. By relocating the person from the heat source, you can minimize heat absorption and begin the cooling process.

Ensuring that the individual is in a safe, cool environment also allows other emergency measures—such as IV fluid administration, monitoring vital signs, and providing necessary medical interventions—to be conducted more effectively without the added stress of heat exposure. Prioritizing the cooling process is essential to prevent complications such as multiple organ dysfunction or neurological damage due to the extreme body temperature associated with heat stroke.