Hyperthermia & Heat-Related Illnesses Nursing Care Plan and Management

Use this guide to help you formulate nursing interventions for a hyperthermia and fever nursing care plan and nursing diagnosis. 

This nursing care plan and management guide can assist in providing care for patients with hyperthermia. Get to know the nursing assessment, interventions, goals, and nursing diagnosis to promote safe nursing care for patients with hyperthermia.

What is Hyperthermia?

Hyperthermia is defined as elevated body temperature due to a failure in the body’s thermoregulation system, which arises when a body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. It is a sustained core temperature beyond the normal range, typically greater than 39°C (102.2°F). Such elevations can range from mild to extreme, with body temperatures above 40°C (104°F) posing life-threatening risks.

What’s the difference between hyperthermia and fever?

Hyperthermia is characterized by an uncontrolled increase in body temperature that exceeds the body’s ability to lose heat with failure in hypothalamic thermoregulation. In contrast, fever (pyrexia) is characterized by a temporary elevation of body temperature above the normal value that is induced by cytokine activation (e.g., immune activation due to infection, inflammatory diseases) and is regulated by the hypothalamus.

See also: Fever (Pyrexia) Nursing Care Plans

Common causes of hyperthermia result from the combined effects of activity and salt and water deprivation in a hot environment, such as when athletes perform in scorching weather or when older adults avoid using air conditioning because of expense. Hyperthermia may transpire more quickly in persons who have endocrine-related problems, alcohol consumption, or take diuretics, anticholinergics, or phototoxic agents. Common forms of accidental hyperthermia include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. Malignant hyperthermia is a rare reaction to common anesthetic agents such as halothane or the paralytic agent succinylcholine. Those who have this reaction, which is potentially fatal, have a genetic predisposition.

What are Heat-Related Illnesses? 

Heat-related illnesses are a spectrum of conditions that occur when the body is unable to cool itself properly in hot weather. These illnesses range from mild to severe and can include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. They are caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often coupled with dehydration or strenuous physical activity. Certain individuals, such as the elderly, infants and young children, the obese, outdoor workers, and those with chronic medical conditions, are at increased risk for developing a heat-related illness. A thorough assessment of preoperative patients is necessary for prevention.

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Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness and is a medical emergency. It occurs when the body’s core temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) or higher due to failure of the body’s heat-regulating mechanisms or the sweating mechanism of the body fails. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and hot, dry skin. If not treated quickly, heat stroke can cause permanent damage to organs or even death.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that happens when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. It can develop after prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical activity in hot weather. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and rapid heartbeat. If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during or after intense physical activity in high temperatures. They are caused by loss of fluids and electrolytes through sweating. Heat cramps typically affect muscles in the abdomen, arms, or legs. Though not as severe as heat stroke or exhaustion, they signal the need to replenish fluids and cool down.

Heat Syncope (Fainting)

Heat syncope occurs when an individual experiences a sudden drop in blood pressure due to prolonged standing or rapid changes in posture during heat exposure. It results in fainting or lightheadedness. This condition is more common in older adults and those unaccustomed to the heat.

Heat Rash (Prickly Heat)

Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid conditions. It appears as red, itchy clusters of small blisters or bumps, usually on the neck, chest, groin, or armpits. Although it is not a serious condition, it can be uncomfortable and is typically managed by staying in a cooler environment and keeping the affected area dry.