What is the recommended response to severe hypothermia?

• A. Walk quickly to warm area
• B. Ignore and monitor
• C. Immersion in hot bath
• D. Handle gently, call EMS, external rewarming

Answer: (D)

Severe hypothermia requires careful handling and fast access to professional medical care. The best approach is to keep the person safe and warm without rough movement, while arranging emergency help. Gentle handling reduces the risk of triggering dangerous heart rhythms that can occur when the body is this cold. Exertion or jostling can stress the heart, so don’t walk them to a warmer area or try to “shake off” the cold. Avoid immersion in hot water or any rapid, aggressive heating, which can cause shock or arrhythmias. Instead, replace wet clothing with dry layers, insulate with blankets, and apply warm (not hot) packs to the chest, neck, armpits, and groins to warm the core gradually. Keep them flat and sheltered from wind, monitor breathing, and call EMS immediately so professional rewarming and medical care can begin.