Course Info (Learning Objectives; Clinical Bottom Line; Summary Conclusions)

BOC Domains of Athletic Training:

• Domain I - Risk Reduction, Wellness, and Health Literacy

• Domain II Clinical Evaluation and Diagnosis

• Domain Ill - Critical Incident Management
  

• Domain V - Healthcare Administration and Professional Responsibility

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the importance of an emergency action plan (EAP) in effectively managing exertional heat illnesses during athletic activities.
2. Analyze the benefits of rapid cold-water immersion using a core rectal thermometer during exertional heat illnesses.
3. Examine the perceived and actual legal, medical, and safety barriers faced by athletic trainers and other healthcare providers in utilizing core rectal thermometer use in pediatric patients.
4. Compare the implications of immediate vs delayed rapid-body cooling methods on patient mortality vs. morbidity.

Clinical Bottom Line:

Core rectal thermometers are an invaluable tool for the proper diagnosis and emergency management of exertional heat illnesses (EHI), and their use can be facilitated by having an effective emergency action plan (EAP) in place. Proper training and equipment for healthcare providers can ensure that rectal thermometers are used safely and effectively, with no risk of injury or harm to pediatric athletes. Furthermore, it is imperative that coaches receive proper training in early recognition of EHI and can initiate cooling measures including EMS activation if trained medical personnel are not on-site. Implementation of rectal thermometer use within the EAP can lead to timely and accurate diagnosis of exertional heat stroke, and allow for prompt initiation of cooling measures to prevent further morbidity and mortality.

Summary Conclusions:

1. An effective emergency action plan (EAP) is crucial for managing exertional heat illnesses during athletic activities.
2. Rapid cold-water immersion using a core rectal thermometer can provide significant benefits in managing EHI.
3. Perceived and actual legal, medical, and safety barriers must be addressed for the utilization of core rectal thermometer use in pediatric patients to prevent negligence.
4. Immediate rapid-body cooling methods have a better impact on patient mortality and morbidity than delayed cooling methods.
5. Proper training and equipment for healthcare providers can ensure the safe and effective use of core rectal thermometers, as well as proper coach education to early recognition of EHI, leading to timely and accurate diagnosis and prompt initiation of cooling measures to prevent further morbidity and mortality.