26-1 EMS Protocol Practice Test

In suspected hypothermia, the priority is to prevent further heat loss and rewarm the patient carefully while protecting the heart from stresses that can trigger dangerous rhythms. Gentle handling is essential because rough movement can provoke arrhythmias in a cold, fragile heart. Removing wet clothing stops ongoing heat loss, and then rewarming should be gradual: use passive measures such as dry clothes, blankets, and a warm environment to conserve what’s left of the patient’s heat, followed by active external warming (like warming blankets or heat packs placed on the trunk) if available. Avoid rapid or direct heating to the chest or elsewhere with high heat, which can cause burns or push heat into the core too quickly and create complications like afterdrop. Continuous monitoring of vital signs and especially heart rhythm is crucial since hypothermia alters conduction and can lead to dangerous rhythms. If protocol allows, warmed IV fluids can aid internal rewarming and hydration; avoid cold IV fluids. In severe cases, follow hypothermia-specific resuscitation guidelines.