UNDERSTANDING HYPOTHERMIA

Updated 2/25

Hypothermia regardless of the cause, is considered to be life-threatening. It is defined as a drop in core temperature of less than 95*F(35*C) and may result in death if left untreated.

Symptoms will depend on the degree of hypothermia. A patient may have shivering , cold bluish lips and extremities and slowly lapse into an unconscious state. Trauma and prolonged exposure to cold in the outdoors may lead to hypothermia. Small children and the elderly are also at risk. For more information on this topic, click on the link: Bair Hugger