Management of Hypothermia

Management of Hypothermia

Definition

  • Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 35°C.

Management Strategies (W)

  1. Warming Techniques (WB)

    • Immerse the patient’s entire body or extremities in water (max temperature: 42°C).

    • Apply blankets to prevent chilling when the patient is removed from water.

  2. Caution (HHH)

    • Avoid heat lamps, heating pads, or hot water bottles due to risk of local tissue injury.

    • Monitor skin temperature closely; exceeding 42°C can lead to (CEC):

      • capillary stasis

      • edema

      • circulatory collapse.

  3. Less Serious Cases (B)

    • For mild hypothermia, applying blankets can be sufficient.