What is the critical difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and why does it matter?

A. They are the same condition at different stages — both are treated identically with rest

B. Heat exhaustion requires IV fluids; heat exhaustion only requires rest in shade

C. Heat exhaustion: core temp <40°C, sweating present, conscious, can be treated with rest/cooling/fluids. Heat stroke: core temp >40°C, sweating absent or reduced, confusion/unconsciousness — a life-threatening emergency requiring aggressive cooling and urgent evacuation

D. Heat stroke is less serious than heat exhaustion — it resolves with oral fluids

A. Severe hypothermia — perform CPR immediately regardless of pulse

B. Heat exhaustion — cool the casualty and give cold water

C. Mild to moderate hypothermia (core temp ~32–35°C) — remove wet clothing, insulate from wind and cold, warm with blankets and foil, give warm sweet drinks if conscious and no injury suspected, handle gently and do NOT rub limbs

D. Mild hypothermia — exercise to generate body heat

A. Start rescue breaths (5 initial breaths) immediately, then begin standard CPR (30 compressions : 2 breaths) — airway and breathing take priority as drowning is a hypoxic event

B. Place in recovery position and monitor — never start CPR on a drowning victim who may vomit

C. Clear the airway by holding the casualty upside down first

D. Start chest compressions only — do not give rescue breaths