Integrating Cognitive Assessments Into the Heat Tolerance Test After Exertional Heat Injury

The objective of the proposed research is to add a cognitive evaluation to the physiological parameters monitored in the heat tolerance test (HTT) and to construct a new cognitive-physiological model for evaluation based on the accumulated knowledge on soldiers' heat tolerance. Each year, in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), approximately 50 soldiers post exertional heat injury (EHI) are referred to perform the HTT. The HTT is carried out approximately one month post injury as part of clinical evaluation of the patient and is also intended to determine return to duty for combatants in field units. Currently, the criteria used in the HTT to determine heat tolerance are based solely on physiological parameters, while no cognitive evaluation is utilized in the HTT. Noteworthy are the numerous studies published in scientific literature describing the influence of exposure to heat conditions and physical effort on cognition and psychological strain in humans.

The subjects performing the HTT will also undergo cognitive evaluation and psychological strain assessment using tests used and validated in the research laboratories of the United States military (USARIEM). The cognitive evaluation will be performed in addition to the validated physiological monitoring performed in the HTT. All gathered physiological and cognitive data will be used to construct new bio-statistical models and new criteria will be suggested for the definition of heat tolerance or intolerance.

Inclusion criteria

• Combat soldiers post exertional heat injury

Exclusion criteria

• Additional medical condition restricting combat duty