What condition signals the need for whole-body cooling in heat-related emergencies?

The condition signaling the need for whole-body cooling in heat-related emergencies is a core body temperature greater than 104°F. This threshold is important because it indicates a dangerous level of heat stress, which can lead to serious conditions such as heat stroke. At this elevated temperature, the body's normal mechanisms for thermoregulation begin to fail, and the individual is at severe risk for vital organ damage and other complications. Immediate intervention through whole-body cooling is crucial to lower the core temperature and prevent further health issues or death.

While confusion and disorientation are concerning symptoms that may accompany heat-related illnesses, they can occur at various temperatures and do not alone justify the need for such aggressive cooling measures. A core temperature less than 100°F is generally considered safe and does not trigger an emergency response for cooling, and minor nausea, while potentially a symptom of heat illness, is not a critical indicator that would necessitate whole-body cooling. Therefore, the established threshold of greater than 104°F is the definitive criterion for initiating this urgent intervention.