What should be considered if a patient shows signs of severe hypothermia?

In cases of severe hypothermia, passive rewarming and gentle handling are critical considerations. Passive rewarming involves removing any wet clothing and wrapping the patient in warm, dry blankets, which allows the body to gradually regain temperature without the risks associated with more aggressive methods. Gentle handling is essential because patients with severe hypothermia can be at risk for cardiac dysrhythmias, and a sudden change in temperature or overly aggressive movement can provoke these complications.

Active rewarming with hot packs, although it might seem intuitive, can lead to complications such as peripheral vasodilation, which can result in shock. Immediate transport without assessment overlooks the need for evaluating the patient's condition and the potential need for other interventions. Providing oral warm liquids is typically not advised in severe hypothermia, as the patient's ability to swallow may be compromised, and large temperature fluctuations can further destabilize their condition. Therefore, the choice of passive rewarming and gentle handling aligns best with the need for a safe and effective approach to managing severe hypothermia.