Key investigations in hypothermia
Investigations for a patient with moderate to severe hypothermia who has been transferred to hospital include:
- an electrocardiogram
- biochemistry including serum creatine kinase concentration
- full blood examination
- clotting profile.
Multiple biochemical abnormalities can be expected in patients with moderate or severe hypothermia. In particular, treat abnormal glucose, potassium, kidney function and clotting. Cold-induced rhabdomyolysis is uncommon but should be evaluated by measuring serum creatine kinase concentrationTorres, 2015. If creatine kinase concentration is elevated, request a specific urinalysis for myoglobin. See Treatment for rhabdomyolysis for management of rhabdomyolysis.
Blood group typing may be indicated if trauma is present or there is a risk of bleeding from treatment of associated injuries (eg frostbite)Lindford, 2017.