Hypothermia

Hypothermia can become life-threatening very quickly, so it is important to treat it as quickly as possible. It is classified as being when the casualty's body temperature drops below 35 degrees (normal temperature is 37 degrees). This may seem like a very small change, but it can have severe consequences for the body.

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Stretch!

The body loses heat fastest through the head, hands, and feet due to their large surface area and rich blood supply.

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What you might see:

• Shivering

• Pale, dry skin

  • Skin may have a blue tinge, especially lips, ears, and fingers

• Slow, shallow breathing

• Confusion

• Unusually tired and irrational* behaviour

• Slow pulse

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Stretch!

Shivering can increase heat production by up to five times, but as hypothermia worsens, shivering stops, which is a dangerous sign.

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There are separate protocols for treating hypothermia indoors and outdoors.

Indoors:

1. Cover the casualty with layers of blankets or warm clothes

2. Do not expose them to direct heat e.g. a fireplace - could cause burns

3. Give them something warm and high-energy to drink, like soup.

4. If there is no obvious reason why the casualty is hypothermic, seek medical attention as it could be disguising an underlying issue.

Outdoors:

1. Get the casualty indoors as soon as possible. If this is not possible, then take them to a sheltered area.

2. Replace any wet clothing.

3. Try to protect the casualty from the cold as much as possible - if a foil blanket is available, wrap the casualty in it.

4. If possible, lay the casualty down on warm materials - bracken, heather, extra blankets if available.

5. Call emergency services if possible.

6. Do not leave the casualty alone - if emergency aid is not available, send people to get help.

7. Offer the casualty warm, high-energy food or drink if they are responsive.

8. Monitor the level of response consistently.

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Summary:

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35°C, causing symptoms like shivering, pale skin, slow breathing and pulse, and confusion. You should treat it quickly by keeping the casualty warm without using direct heat, giving warm high-energy drinks, and seeking medical help. Outdoors, getting the person indoors/to shelter, replacing wet clothes, and using insulating materials is vital. Emergency services should be called, and the casualty must not be left alone.

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Glossary:

Hypothermia: a condition where your body temperature drops below 35 degrees, meaning it's too cold.

Irrational: when someone isn't behaving normally, and can't think logically.

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For Older Learners

Use these questions to challenge yourself!

1. What environmental factors might complicate the treatment and recovery of someone with hypothermia?

2. How could climate change influence the frequency and severity of hypothermia cases worldwide?

3. If a casualty shows signs of confusion, how would you determine whether it’s due to hypothermia or another medical condition?

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