Clinical Scorecard: What heat brings to acute care

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Extreme heat defined as warm-season 95th percentile daily maximum temperature (≥33.67 °C).
• Study analyzed 916,904 encounters among 372,140 adults from 2011 to 2023.
• Renal disorders, including volume depletion and acute kidney failure, were significantly associated with extreme heat.
• Injury-related diagnoses included lower-limb burns, accidental firearm discharge, and open wounds.
• Findings may be sensitive to seasonal exposure and limited by demographic representation.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Monitor for renal and fluid-balance disorders during extreme heat events.
• Assess for dermatologic conditions and injury-related diagnoses in affected populations.

Management

• Implement hydration strategies and heat exposure education for at-risk populations.
• Provide immediate care for acute kidney failure and other heat-related conditions.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Track emergency department visits during heat waves for targeted interventions.
• Evaluate long-term health outcomes related to heat exposure.

Risks

• Increased risk of dehydration and renal stress during extreme heat.
• Potential for higher incidence of injuries and external-cause diagnoses.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adults presenting to emergency care during extreme heat events.

Focus on hydration and management of heat-related illnesses.

Clinical Best Practices

• Educate patients on the risks of heat exposure and preventive measures.
• Utilize a multidisciplinary approach for managing heat-related presentations.

Related Resources & Content

• Science Advances