Hydration decisions during heat stroke should consider the child's consciousness and ability to drink.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Only after cooling finished
• D. Only via IV regardless of consciousness

Answer: (B)

Hydration decisions during heat stroke must be tailored to the child’s consciousness and ability to drink. If a child is alert and able to swallow safely, you can start oral rehydration with appropriate fluids while rapid cooling continues, because this supports fluid balance without delaying treatment and avoids unnecessary IV access. If the child is drowsy, confused, vomiting, or otherwise unable to protect the airway, giving fluids by mouth is unsafe, and IV fluids are indicated to rapidly restore perfusion and prevent further deterioration. Cooling is the priority, but hydration can and should be addressed in parallel, choosing the method that matches the child’s mental status and swallowing ability. In short, the right approach to hydration depends on whether the child can drink safely, with IV reserved for those who cannot.