Heatstroke: The Nurse's Pivotal Role in the Emergency Department.

With record-setting temperature increases, emergency nurses must rapidly recognize and manage life-threatening heat illnesses such as heatstroke. Reaching the core temperature cooling target of 39 °C (102.2 °F) within 30 minutes of heatstroke recognition is critical and directly affects morbidity and mortality. Sequelae of heatstroke may include neurologic and vital organ damage, particularly in cases of delayed cooling. This article summarizes evidence-based strategies and nursing considerations for heatstroke, including recommendations for total body immersion without the need for specialized equipment. Emergency nurses should work collaboratively to ensure that up-to-date protocols are in place and engage in training to identify and treat individuals with heatstroke rapidly.