What are the drinking water precautions for patients with heatstroke?

Generally speaking, the key points regarding hydration for patients with heat stroke include determining whether the patient is conscious enough to drink, choosing electrolyte-containing beverages, controlling the speed and volume of fluid intake, avoiding forceful feeding of water, and combining medical rehydration methods. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Determine whether to give fluids based on the level of consciousness: Patients who are conscious and able to swallow voluntarily may receive small amounts of water for rehydration. However, if the patient is confused, unconscious, or experiencing frequent vomiting, oral fluids should be withheld to prevent aspiration and choking. Fluid administration should be resumed only after medical evaluation.

2. Choose beverages containing electrolytes: Avoid drinking plain water alone. Instead, prioritize beverages such as lightly salted water, oral rehydration salts, or drinks containing sodium and potassium. These help replace electrolytes lost through sweating, maintain osmotic pressure balance in the body, and reduce the risk of electrolyte disturbances.

3. Control the speed and volume of drinking: Even if the patient is conscious, fluids should be given in small amounts at regular intervals. Each volume should not be excessive, and appropriate time intervals should be maintained. Rapid ingestion of large volumes of fluid should be avoided to prevent excessive burden on the gastrointestinal tract and heart.

4. Avoid forceful feeding of fluids: For patients unable to cooperate with swallowing, do not forcefully administer fluids using spoons or cups, as this may cause coughing or aspiration. Instead, wait for healthcare professionals to provide hydration intravenously, ensuring airway patency.

5. Combine with medical fluid replacement: In cases of severe dehydration or difficulty with oral intake, intravenous administration of normal saline, Ringer's solution, or other appropriate fluids may be required to rapidly correct dehydration. In such cases, follow the guidance of medical staff, and do not alter the type or rate of fluid administration without authorization.

When caring for a patient with heat stroke, hydration should always prioritize safety. First, assess the patient's level of consciousness and swallowing ability, avoid blind rehydration, and contact medical personnel as soon as possible. Throughout the process, cooperate fully with professional medical management to ensure that the method of rehydration is appropriate for the patient's condition, thus supporting recovery.