Best Practice Case Studies-AAP Position Statement: Heat Illness

Pdf Summary

A recent policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics focuses on climatic heat stress and exercising children and adolescents. The key findings suggest that, contrary to past beliefs, children and adolescents have similar thermoregulatory abilities and exercise tolerance as adults when properly hydrated. Exertional heat illnesses in youth, therefore, are not primarily due to inherent physiological differences but can largely be attributed to modifiable factors. These include poor hydration, excessive exertion, insufficient rest between exercises, inadequate acclimatization to heat, and inappropriate clothing that leads to heat retention.<br /><br />The policy emphasizes prevention as most exertional heat illnesses in youth are preventable. Suggested measures include proper hydration, gradual acclimatization to exercise in heat, and allowing adequate recovery time between exercise sessions. Pediatricians, coaches, and administrators are recommended to provide informed guidance on safe practice conditions, considering individual variability in health, fitness, and acclimatization.<br /><br />To improve safety, the policy outlines that comprehensively trained personnel, and facilities for treating heat illnesses should be present during athletic activities. Monitoring by trained staff for signs of heat illness is crucial, and emergency action plans should be in place to deal with heat-related illnesses efficiently.<br /><br />In essence, the Academy recommends community and school awareness programs on preventing exertional heat illness, training for personnel on managing such conditions, and practical strategies for athletes' safety, including the necessity of proper hydration, gradual heat acclimatization, and avoiding activities when recovering from illness. The overarching goal is to ensure that most children and adolescents can safely participate in sports and vigorous activities even in various challenging climates by mitigating risks through informed practices and responses.

Meta Tag

Edition 2nd Edition

Related Case 2nd Edition, CASE 35

Topic Metabolic Disorders

Keywords

2nd Edition, CASE 35

2nd Edition

Metabolic Disorders

climatic heat stress

exertional heat illnesses

thermoregulatory abilities

hydration

acclimatization

pediatric safety

emergency action plans

sports safety

prevention strategies

American Academy of Pediatrics