What is the first step in caring for an ill employee working near furnaces who is responsive but confused?

The first step in caring for an ill employee who is responsive but confused, especially in an environment near furnaces, is to get her to a cooler place and begin immediate cooling. This approach is crucial if the confusion is a sign of heat-related illness or heat exhaustion, which can occur in extremely hot environments. The body may struggle to manage heat effectively, leading to symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, and fatigue.

By moving her to a cooler place, you help mitigate the heat stress on her body, improving her chances of recovery. Additionally, initiating cooling measures—like fanning her or applying cool, damp cloths—can help lower her body temperature and alleviate symptoms. This sort of intervention is immediate and addresses the potential underlying cause of her confusion, making it a priority in emergency response.

While hydration and calling for emergency services are certainly important in a comprehensive care plan, they should follow the immediate step of addressing the heat exposure, as they may not provide relief if she is still in a hot environment. Providing a blanket, conversely, would likely worsen her condition if she is overheating.