What core temperature threshold defines exertional heat stroke in rehab evaluation?

• A. About 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
• B. About 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
• C. About 102°F (39.0°C) or higher
• D. About 104°F (40°C) or higher with CNS dysfunction

Answer: (D)

Exertional heat stroke is identified when a dangerous rise in body temperature occurs along with central nervous system dysfunction. The defining threshold is a core temperature around 40°C (104°F) or higher, paired with symptoms such as confusion, agitation, seizures, or loss of consciousness. This combination sets heat stroke apart from milder heat illnesses like heat exhaustion, which may have high temperature but without CNS signs. The other options show lower temperatures and do not include CNS impairment, so they don’t meet the criteria for exertional heat stroke. In rehab evaluation, recognizing the 40°C (104°F) plus CNS dysfunction pattern is crucial because it signals an emergency requiring rapid cooling and urgent medical care.