Introduction to hypothermia

Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature of less than 35ºC, and may have a number of precipitating causes (eg environmental exposure [including immersion in cold water], minor and major trauma, drug intoxication, neurological events, endocrine disorders).

Although it is more common in colder climates, severe accidental hypothermia can occur in any location. Infants, the elderly and the socially isolated are at higher risk of hypothermia. Despite advances in modern supportive care, the in-hospital mortality for patients with moderate to severe hypothermia remains almost 40%.

Localised cold injury (eg frostbite) may accompany hypothermia—it can be managed concurrently with mild hypothermia, but in moderate to severe hypothermia, central rewarming must be effectively managed firstMcIntosh, 2019.

Hypothermia can be a factor in drowning after prolonged immersion; managing hypothermia may be an important aspect of managing drowning.